Understanding Understanding the Stages of the Stages of

GriefGrief

The 5 StagesThe 5 Stages

DenialDenial AngerAnger BargainingBargaining DepressionDepression AcceptanceAcceptance

DenialDenialIt is hard for our minds to It is hard for our minds to accept that such a loss has accept that such a loss has

taken place.taken place.

““I can’t believe he’s gone”I can’t believe he’s gone”

AngerAngerHaving no control over our Having no control over our

loss we react to our loss we react to our vulnerability with anger.vulnerability with anger.

““They should have been able They should have been able to do something!”to do something!”

BargainingBargainingWe want to trade something We want to trade something we can do for the reversal of we can do for the reversal of

the loss.the loss.

““I’d do anything if only this I’d do anything if only this didn’t happen”didn’t happen”

DepressionDepressionA feeling of hopelessness A feeling of hopelessness about the situation takes about the situation takes

over.over.

““I miss him”I miss him”

AcceptanceAcceptanceWe accept the reality of the We accept the reality of the

situation and are able to situation and are able to move on with our lives.move on with our lives.

““Yes, but we’ll be o.k.”Yes, but we’ll be o.k.”

Symptoms Associated Symptoms Associated with Griefwith Grief

Insomnia, orInsomnia, or Increase in sleepIncrease in sleep Loss of appetiteLoss of appetite Chest or throat Chest or throat

tightnesstightness WeaknessWeakness ConfusionConfusion

Lack of energyLack of energy SighingSighing Loss of breathLoss of breath ForgetfulForgetful Preoccupation Preoccupation

with losswith loss AnxietyAnxiety

What You Can DoWhat You Can Do Set small goals for yourselfSet small goals for yourself If you can, put big decisions on holdIf you can, put big decisions on hold Make sure you eat and get Make sure you eat and get

nourishmentnourishment Mild exercise can helpMild exercise can help Seek out people you can trust when Seek out people you can trust when

you are readyyou are ready Let time heal youLet time heal you