Understanding the Stages of Grief

Everyone experiences grief differently and take their time processing it. Some recover within months while others take years. There’s no right or wrong way to experience this, no set patterns or processes to go through for recovery. People have their coping methods so it’s important to give them space. While different individuals have different experiences, most go through common stages of grief. These stages were first established by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross 30 years ago and they are:

1. Denial

When a loved one passes away, those left behind experience disbelief. It takes some time for reality to set in and denial to pass. People will first reject death, especially if it happens without warning.

2. Anger

Anger is an instinctive and healthy response to grief as it is an outlet for all pain locked inside. Bereaved individuals often experience bouts of frustration, rage, and helplessness, which shouldn’t be suppressed. 

3. Bargaining

At this stage, people attempt to determine how they could’ve avoided death. Questions like “did he receive the right treatment” or “should I have taken her to the doctor sooner” or “if they didn’t leave the house”, etc., will plague the mind.

4. Depression

This is where reality and acceptance start to come in. People experience intense pain along with a crushing sense of helplessness. This can last for months, if not years, as people will take their time to recover from it.

5. Acceptance

This is the final step where individuals accept their loss and look towards their future. They have made peace with a loved one’s demise, which allows them to reflect on the decedent with a positive mindset.

If you want some help and assistance for arranging funerals for yourself or departed loved ones, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at Franklin H. Rainear, Jr., Affordable Funeral Service & Cremation, LLC through our website or call (888) 213-4090.