The death of a loved one is a traumatic event that can trigger intense emotions. That's why it's important to seek grief support to manage the sadness, anger, or anxiety you're feeling. Various circumstances can cause grief over the loss to transform into depression. Here is a guide to how this can happen, signs of depression to be aware of, and coping mechanisms to try. 

How Grief Can Morph Into Depression

If you've experienced bouts of depression in the past, grief can often turn into depression or make existing depression worse. This happens when the intense feelings of sadness persist in the months or years after the loss. It is difficult to move past these prolonged, unwavering feelings even when you get grief support from family members and friends. 

The Symptoms of Depression 

As intense sadness can make it difficult to engage with others, isolation is a common symptom of depression. A person might become withdrawn and avoid family gatherings and other social events that once brought them joy. 

Depression also affects the ability to function in your professional or personal life, as it is difficult or impossible to focus on the task at hand. Insomnia is a symptom, too, as it is hard to fall asleep when your brain is preoccupied with negative thoughts. 

How to Cope With Depression

There are several steps you can take to manage depression that is triggered by a loss. Exercising, for example, helps your body release endorphins. These neurotransmitters are mood boosters. Working out also releases serotonin, which can make it easier to fall asleep.

Joining a grief support group is a good idea, too, as it might be easier to share your vulnerabilities with people who have experienced similar situations. Group members can share advice to help you feel more hopeful. Reach out to loved ones, too, as a community of supporters can help you feel less alone.

If a relative or friend has recently passed away, contact the professionals at family-owned and -operated Eackles-Spencer & Norton Funeral Home in West Virginia, for assistance. The funeral home has been serving the Harper's Ferry and Charles Town communities since 1918. The caring professionals will create a touching funeral service to honor your loved one's memory and direct you to grief support resources to cope with the loss. Learn about the benefits of funeral pre-planning online and call (304) 724-6500 to discuss funeral arrangements with a representative.