Grief is the response to loss, particularly to the loss of someone or something that has died, to which a bond or affection was formed. Although conventionally focused on the emotional response to loss, it also has physical, cognitive, behavioral, social, cultural, spiritual and philosophical dimensions.

How does grief affect the body?

It batters the immune system, leaving you depleted and vulnerable to infection. The heartbreak of grief can increase blood pressure and the risk of blood clots. Intense grief can alter the heart muscle so much that it causes "broken heart syndrome," a form of heart disease with the same symptoms as a heart attack.

5/4/12 stages/steps of grief, addiction, accepting new ideas

• Denial. Dissociation. "I only want life to be as it was": Acceptance of the facts, but refusal / denial of the need to (re-)plan. Bewilderment.
• Anger. Scapegoating.
• Bargaining.
• Despair (/ Depression) Bewilderment.
• Acceptance.