You don't have to be alone while grieving the loss of a loved one.
Fortunately, understanding the progression of grief can make it more manageable.
The Classic Stages of Grief
- Denial is often the first phase. You may be aware, but there could be a part of you that has not accepted that the end is near. You may even hold onto hope that perhaps this is not going to happen or it’s a mistake. Overwhelmingly negative experiences can be difficult to absorbed immediately.
- Anger arrives when you see the inequity of loss or feel powerless. It’s that lack of control, the arbitrary nature of loss, that can be upsetting to the point of rage. Anger may not take obvious external forms, but it may be present.
- Bargaining begins when you attempt to set up some type of “deal” that, if honored, will alter the course of events. It can take the form of promising to donate time and money to a noble cause. It can be offering to be a better spouse, friend, or even person, in hopes that such a deal will stop loss. It’s an attempt to regain control after feeling powerless.
- Depression enters when the realization comes that, irrespective of what you say, do, feel, think or promise, the loss is here to stay. This is when the pain is at its most severe. You may reminisce about the past and feel sorrow knowing that there will be no future memories. You are realizing that what you had has disappeared forever.
- Acceptance is the last phase, when you have emotionally and intellectually dealt with what has happened and you’re ready to move forward with living. It doesn’t mean you forget, or even stop caring, but that you’re able to look back without experiencing devastating anguish. You can know that you have dealt with loss successfully.
Everyone may not experience every stage in this order. Some may even go from anger to acceptance. Awareness of the phases of grief can offer some comfort in knowing what to expect.
Why Does Grief Persist for So Long?
Managing Grief
One important note: If grief goes on for months at a time with no change, it may be time to seek medical and psychiatric help. Loss can be a catalyst for other issues to emerge. Do not assume that grief means you must lead a new life of discomfort. One can learn to live with loss without living in agony.
Get a Reading with Stasch x9303
Stasch developed his abilities as a reader early. In order to continuing developing and growing, he sees the process as an ongoing one that is enriched by continuing learning and development. He attends assorted workshops and education programs in this area. In addition to a passion for the spiritual, he is a published poet, writer and holds two degrees in visual art. At one point he was a full-time writer for assorted national and regional publications. As an educator, that role has permitted him to be a world traveler. Giving and community service is something he firmly believes in doing, and continues to so through assorted projects and endeavors.
Leave A Comment
You must be logged in to leave a comment. click here to login