Grief affects everybody in different ways and it can be hard to predict how somebody will react during this time period. However a popular way of categorising grief has emerged, the seven stages of grief.
Read on to find out what they are and the common signs of each stage.
The Seven Stages Of Grief
Originally there were five stages of grief introduced by Swiss-American psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross. In her 1969 book On Death & Dying, she wrote of her work with terminally ill patients to describe the process that these individuals went through as they came to terms with their own deaths.
These five stages were denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. Over time two more stages were added, so here is a quick guide to each of the seven.
1. Shock
The first of the two new stages that have developed over time, shock is the first sensation people often feel. It is most common in situations where the death or diagnosis has come out of nowhere and is truly shocking. Most people in shock behave normally as the news is yet to sink in properly.
2. Denial
After this comes denial. This is where somebody knows something has occurred but just can’t bring themselves to believe it. People during this stage often seem confused, forgetful and can’t concentrate.
3. Anger
This usually happens when a person can’t deny what happened any longer. Some people keep this anger internalised, but it can also cause people to lash out at their other loved ones.
4. Bargaining
Bargaining involves making promises to yourself or a higher being for a chance to put things right or get over their grief. People often try to bargain for things that might not make sense.
5. Depression
Depression hits next. A loved one dying or facing a terminal illness can cause a person to think about their own mortality. This stage normally involves feelings of depression, anxiety, isolation and dread.
6. Testing/Reconstruction
Another of the newer stages. This is where an individual finally starts to get over their grief and move on. While you are not fully healed at this stage, you are working towards it.
7. Acceptance
The final stage is acceptance. You have worked through the previous stages and the most painful part of your grief, accepting that your loved one is gone and you need to go on. You don’t have to forget and move on completely, but acceptance allows you to get on with your life without being consumed by grief.
Funeral Services In Paignton From Stockman & Loram
Dealing with grief is hard, whatever stage of grief you’re in. That is why when a loved one dies you want to make the process as easy as possible for you, especially if the responsibility falls to you to handle the funeral.
Stockman & Loram are able to create tailor-made funeral services that will allow you to not get overwhelmed when dealing with funeral arrangements. We can take tough decisions out of your hands or help you through them with the care and consideration you deserve.
We have been supporting the Devon community for four generations, offering our services to Paignton, Torbay, Exeter and Dartmoor. If you’d like to find out more about how we can help, get in touch today.
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