The Long Term Effects of Sudden, Life Changing Loss

Ten major life-changing events involving loss

Are you aware of the long term effects of a sudden, life-changing loss?

Most people do not realize that there are ten life-changing events involving loss of different kinds, that can affect a person's life and future. These events can trigger heart attacks or cause a person to suffer a major coronary. Note that this list is not all-inclusive. Each set of circumstances can be unique. 

The loss of a spouse or a life-time partner can trigger a heart attack, in the person who is left behind. This may occur because of the high level of stress, at that time. There may be feelings of hopelessness and helplessness, as the other person seeks to adjust. A change in physical activity can affect one's heart health also.

The loss of a parent or both parents, at the same time, or within a short period of time, can precede a heart attack. Children of all ages, are strongly attached to their parents. The death of a parent or both parents, may come as a sudden shock.

The sudden loss of any family member can cause a heart attack, particularly when there is a close relationship. It can also happen if there is the failure to resolve a relationship or the inability to cope with the loss. Note that those who lose loved ones may become angry or suffer intense rage. A large amount of adrenalin may be released, triggering a flight, fight or emotional paralysis. The added stress or tension can affect one's heart muscles.

When someone, including one's family members or friends, suffers a major illness or is seriously injured, in some way that is perceived as a loss. Anyone can suffer a heart attack, either at that time or shortly thereafter. This often has to do with the high degree of emotional involvement, which adds stress and tension to the heart muscles.

A sudden job loss or a job change, perceived in terms of loss, can turn into an even more traumatic event, possibly triggering a heart attack, particularly when it is unexpected. Fretting about a pending job loss or anticipating unemployment over a long period of time, can lead to intensified stress and a heart attack, as well.

Retirement, particularly forced retirement, is often associated with loss and can result in a heart attack, as there is a change in one's lifestyle and activity level, at the same time.

Selling one's house, property or personal possessions, can be considered as loss and may result in a heart attack, particularly when there is added stress associated with sales transactions or foreclosures.

Business closure is regarded in terms of financial loss involving problematic management. This may result in a heart attack in terms of the owner or employees, who are suddenly without work.

Getting married or even the marriage of one's children, can be perceived in terms of loss. This can result in a heart attack, particularly when the new spouse is regarded as less than suitable by the parents.

Becoming a parent or a grandparent can lead to a sense of loss, resulting in a heart attack. There may be anger or the feeling of the loss of control with regard to one's time and plans for the future. Sometimes, there is an unanticipated, financial burden associated with loss of income, or the necessity of financial support for the new offspring. Long term sacrifice and planning may be needed with respect to the child's education.

None of these events guarantee that someone will suffer a heart attack or have a coronary, but life-changing events that are perceived in terms of loss, can trigger heart attacks. Sometimes, six months later, when it is least expected, the long term effects of the loss are evidenced. 

We cannot prevent life-changing events that involve loss, but we can and should be aware that they may cause a person to suffer a heart attack or have a coronary. We can always be supportive and compassionate with regard to one another in terms of loss, particularly when it involves those who we love.