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Gilchrist Training Institute
Understanding Grief and How It Affects Physical Health
With Presenter, Gregory W. Branch, MD.
Friday, April 17, 2026
9am - 11am
Qualifies for 2 Category I CEUs and 2 CMEs. Evaluations must be completed at the end of the training to receive CEUs and CMEs.
No entry to the training after 9:05 am
Must use a device that supports video and cameras must be on at all times to receive CEUs.
Pre-registration is required!
Please register before April 14, 2026 by 5pm, to make sure you receive access to the training. Access link emails will be sent to all registrants on the business day prior to the session.
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Session Overview
This session explores the multifaceted impact of grief on physical health, with a focus on the concept of the “grief brain.” Participants will learn to differentiate grief from related conditions such as depression and complicated grief and examine how grief affects major bodily systems including immune, cardiovascular, and digestive functions. The training also highlights cognitive disruptions associated with grief, such as memory loss and mental fog. Practical strategies for coping and intervention will be discussed, including guidance on when to refer individuals to medical or mental health professionals.
Learning Objectives (Concise & Training Overview)
- Differentiate Grief Types: Distinguish between normal grief, complicated grief, and depression using key emotional, behavioral, and physical indicators.
- Assess Biopsychological Effects: Analyze how grief affects the body (immune, cardiovascular, digestive) and cognitive functioning (e.g., memory, “grief brain”).
- Apply Coping Strategies: Use evidence-based strategies to support grieving individuals and identify when professional referral is needed.
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Session Presented by:
Gregory W. Branch, MD, MBA, CPE, FACP
Vice President, Roberta’s House | Physician Executive | Public Health Leader
Dr. Gregory Branch is a nationally recognized physician executive and trauma-informed care advocate with over 35 years of clinical and administrative experience. He earned his MD from SUNY Buffalo, graduating Magna Cum Laude and inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha, and completed his Internal Medicine residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital in the William Osler Program.
As former Director of Health and Human Services for Baltimore County, Dr. Branch led one of Maryland’s largest public health systems, advancing trauma-informed practices across social services, behavioral health, housing, and public health. Currently, as Vice President of Roberta’s House, he champions grief care and resilience in communities impacted by violence and loss.
Dr. Branch serves on the faculty at Johns Hopkins and the University of Maryland and has held leadership roles as Medical Director and Chief Medical Officer in major healthcare organizations. He is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians, a Certified Physician Executive, and holds an MBA from the University of Baltimore.
Beyond medicine, he co-founded Unified Voices of Johns Hopkins, a choir and theater company promoting community empowerment through the arts.
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Questions or issues joining the meeting?
Contact Diane Sancilio at 443.904.2897 or traininginstitute@gilchristcares.org.
Gilchrist is an authorized sponsor of the Board of Social Work Examiners to provide continuing education in the community. Gilchrist maintains responsibility for this educational program.
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