Mind & Mood

How to deal with grief

Experiencing loss can affect your mental and emotional health. Here are ways to navigate the mourning process.

By , Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch

photo of an older man looking sad as he holds a photo in his hand

Almost everyone will experience grief at some point in their lives. Traditionally, it occurs after the passing of a family member, a friend, or even a pet. But it also can arise if someone you know suffers a permanent health-related setback, such as dementia, stroke, or cancer.

Grief can also occur from sudden changes in health or important life events, like a recent move or the end of a relationship, or after witnessing traumatic events, such as natural disasters and mass shootings.

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About the Author

photo of Matthew Solan

Matthew Solan, Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s … See Full Bio
View all posts by Matthew Solan

About the Reviewer

photo of Howard E. LeWine, MD

Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing

Dr. Howard LeWine is a practicing internist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Chief Medical Editor at Harvard Health Publishing, and editor in chief of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. See Full Bio
View all posts by Howard E. LeWine, MD

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As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

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