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Stages of Grief
Grief is a process that allows us to move through the pain of losing someone.
Many grief experts believe that there are generally 5-7 stages, however, I have come to learn there are several more.
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 so, being mindful of the stages of grief can help those who are struggling remember that many others have felt these same emotions—and have made it through.
This information can also be helpful if you know someone experiencing a difficult loss and wish you could simply “make the pain go away.” The reality is, we can’t.
However, making an effort to understand where someone is in their process can go a long way.
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 to reverse this.”
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.
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 commonly known as the final stage of the grieving process. Acceptance does not mean people feel "okay" 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.