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The 7 Stages of Grief

Grief is a process that allows us to move through the pain of losing someone, and many grief experts believe that there are generally 5-7 stages.

Because we are all individuals and our circumstances will vary, these stages may not be experienced in order, and some of them may be bypassed, entirely. Ultimately, everyone will not grieve the same.

Even still, being mindful of the below identified stages of grief can help those who are struggling remember that many other people have felt the same feelings, and survived.

This information may also be helpful if you know someone who's dealing with a difficult loss. There may be times when we wish that we could make the pain go away, but the reality is that we can't. However, making an effort to understand can go a long way.

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1. Shock

This stage may involve numbed disbelief in response to news of a loss. It may serve as an emotional buffer to prevent someone from feeling overwhelmed.

2. Denial

Denial may entail refuting the reality of the loss or any associated feelings. Once an individual accepts reality, they can move forward through the healing process.

Shock and denial help people manage the immediate aftermath of a loss.

3. Anger

During this stage, an individual may direct their anger toward the person who died, doctors, family members, or even religious entities.

This can often replace the numbness of shock and denial. It is very important to try and address you anger to avoid an unhealyhy grief process

4. Bargaining

Bargaining involves thoughts such as “I will do anything if you take away the pain.”

This stage may come at any point within the grieving process. Guilt frequently accompanies it.

5. Depression

At this stage, a person may experience feelings of emptiness and intense sadness. They may also withdraw from daily activities and things they once enjoyed.

While this stage is difficult, it is a necessary step toward healing.

6. Testing

Testing is the process of trying to find solutions that offer a means of dealing with loss. Someone may drift in and out of other grieving stages during this time.

7. Acceptance

This is the final stage of the grieving process. Acceptance does not mean people feel OK about a loss. Rather, it means they realize the loss is their new reality. They understand that while life will not continue as it did before, it will go on.

This stage may involve reorganizing roles and forming new relationships.

You can reference this article on MedicalNewsToday for more information.

The 7 Stages of Grief

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