Stages of Grief

At some point in life, we all experience loss. Loss may come in the form of a loved one, a close friend, a colleague, a pet, or an acquaintance. The stages of grief can affect us all in different ways or at different times and understanding those stages can make all the difference in knowing the reasons behind your emotions or being a sense of strength and support for those who are grieving.

The grief process is traditionally broken into five stages: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. This guide will examine each stage to provide insight into why you might be feeling a certain way in the wake of losing a loved one or a cherished companion.

The Stages of Grief

Denial: The immediate response to death, which helps us to survive loss and pace our feelings.

Anger: The reality of loss sets in, and anger allows us to compartmentalize how loss makes us feel.

Bargaining: The cyclical series of questioning or guilt over not being able to prevent the loss of a loved one.

Depression: The practical implications of loss set in, and private sadness readies us for the reality of separation.

Acceptance: The finality of loss sets in, which allows us to move forward with our lives even if we still reel over the loss.

The final stage, acceptance, should not be confused with the notion of being okay or emotionally stable. The process of learning how to live in the world again without a loved one is a big hurdle for many people. Studies show that those in mourning do not follow the grief process in an uncompromising fashion. Denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance affect us at different times or, sometimes, simultaneously.

At OneWorld Memorials, we strive to provide you with information to help ease your mind and aid in your journey. If you have any questions about the stages of grief or this article, please contact us today for additional information.

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