Grief is part of your story. But not the whole story.

One of the biggest fears after losing someone you love is wondering, "Is this normal grief, or am I becoming depressed?"

The truth is that grief and clinical depression can look remarkably similar. Both can bring overwhelming sadness, exhaustion, difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite, trouble concentrating, and a loss of motivation. But they are not the same—and understanding the difference can reduce fear while helping you recognize when additional support may be needed.

In this chat, we explore:

✅ The key differences between grief and clinical depression
✅ Why grief can mimic many symptoms of depression
✅ The surprising role inflammation plays in grief, including how inflammatory markers can increase after a significant loss and affect both your body and your mood
✅Why sleep problems are so common during grief and practical ways to improve your rest
✅ When it's time to seek additional professional support
✅ Why self-compassion is one of the most important tools for healing

Grief isn't just an emotional experience—it's a whole-body experience. Understanding the physical changes that occur during grief can help you stop questioning yourself and begin treating yourself with the same compassion you would offer someone you love.

Whether you're in the first days, weeks, or months after a loss, we hope this conversation helps you feel less alone, more informed, and more confident in your grief journey.

👉 Follow for tools to navigate grief and difficult emotions and visit www.thegriefgurus.com for practical conversations about grief, coping, and living after loss.

#TheGriefGurus #CarolBanens #LisaMcFarland #healing

Show Notes + Resources:

Grief Gurus Healing Community: www.thegriefgurus.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GriefGurus

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thegriefgurus

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefgurus/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GriefGurus/

Lisa McFarland: https://lisamcfarland.com/

Carol Banens: https://carolbanens.com/

Information on books written and published by Lisa and Carol can be found on their individual websites, social media profiles and Amazon.