The 5 Stages of Grief

A theory developed by psychiatrist, Elisabeth Kubler-Ross.

Denial:

Denial helps you to minimize the overwhelming pain of loss. It can be very difficult to process that you have lost a very important person in your life, especially when you may have just spoken with them recently or even the previous day. It takes time for your mind to adjust to the new reality. You may reflect on experiences with the person you are grieving, and you may be wondering how to move on without this person.

Anger:

Another stage in grieving is anger and occurs as you are experiencing extreme emotional discomfort. Anger may be the first thing you feel when starting to release emotions related to the loss, by providing you an emotional outlet.

Bargaining:

Bargaining comes from a feeling of helplessness, as you try to gain some sense of control. You often try to bargain with a higher power for something in return for being relieved of the pain you feel.

Depression:

Once bargaining no longer feels like an option and your mind slowly begins to accept the reality of the situation, you may begin to feel sadness growing. You may want to retreat and feel less social. Although this is a natural stage of the grieving process, dealing with depression can be isolating. Please know that the staff members of Allay Hospice are here to talk with you over the phone or visit with you.

Acceptance:

When you reach acceptance, it is not that you no longer feel the pain or loss but instead you are no longer resisting the reality of the situation. Sadness and regret may still be present but denial, anger and bargaining are less likely to be present during the final stage of grief.

There is no specific time period for any of these stages, as every person’s grief experience is different. Grief may be weeks, months or even years. Whatever time it takes you to move through these stages is normal. You may not move through these stages in order. You may move back and forth and experience stages more than once. Take the time you need and remove any expectations as you work through the grieving process.

Since we do not want to provide information that supports a particular organization or religious affiliation, we have listed just a few general resources below. You may find additional resources on grief and loss through your local church, library, physician, or online.

www.griefshare.org

Find a grief recovery support group near you.

www.aarp.org/caregiving/grief-loss-end-of-life

Provides a wealth of information on preparing for end of life, grieving and loss after a loved one dies, settling an estate, and more.

www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists

Find a therapist in your area.