
Grief and the Brain
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I was listening to a podcast from Dr Daniel Amen yesterday and he touched on grief and how it can physically impact the brain.
He says grief activates stress responses, releasing hormones like cortisol, which, when chronically elevated, can lead to inflammation and even shrinkage in parts of the brain, notably the hippocampus.
The hippocampus is critical for memory and emotional regulation, which explains why grief can sometimes feel like being in a fog or experiencing memory difficulties.
He said the brain is resilient and capable of healing. Activities like good nutrition, hydration, meditation, gentle exercise, adequate sleep, certain supplements, journaling, gratitude and positivity and connecting with others can help reduce inflammation and support brain recovery after grief.
I find this so interesting as I do feel like I've been in a blur like I have been forgetting things, unable to make decisions or to think clearly.
I've started on Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, magnesium, probiotics and Saffron so let's see if it makes a difference.