May 25, 2026

The Science of Grief - Ep 8: Why You May Feel Disconnected From People After Loss

In this episode we explore why we may feel disconnected from others and also from ourselves when grief hits.Why can grief make conversations feel exhausting?Why do grieving people often withdraw socially, feel emotionallydisconnected, or struggle to relate to others after loss?In this episode of The Science of Grief, we explore the neuroscience, psychology, attachment dynamics, and nervous system changes that help explain why grief can profoundly affect connection, identity, social energy, and emotional capacity.This episode explores:• Why grief can create feelings of disconnection and loneliness• The neuroscience of attachment and loss• How the brain builds “maps” of the people we love• Why social interaction can suddenly feel exhausting• The relationship between grief, identity, and nervous system overload• Why grieving people often withdraw socially• Emotional safety and reconnection after loss• Why this experience is more biologically understandable than we may realiseReferenced in this episode:• Mary-Frances O’Connor — The Grieving Brain• Research on attachment, bereavement, stress physiology, and nervous system regulationWebsite & articles:https://sylviawolfer.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/_sylvia_wolfer_grief_support/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sylviawolfer/Disclaimer:This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not replace medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice. If you are struggling significantly with your mental health, please seek support from a qualified healthcare professional

Also available on Apple Podcasts ↗