5 Stages of Grief and Loss
Denial: Not accepting or even acknowledging loss.
Anger: Feelings of anger and blame.
Bargaining: Attempting to make deals, begging, wishing, praying.
Depression: Overwhelming feelings of hopelessness, frustration, self- pity. Mourning the loss as well as hopes and dreams for the future.
Acceptance: Finding the good that can come out of pain and loss. It is not resignation, but acceptance. Seeking comfort. Goals turn to personal growth, and fond memories of the way things used to be.
You will survive. You will heal, even if you cannot believe that now, just know it is true. To feel pain after loss is normal. It proves that we are alive and human. The Grieving process is not complete until the acceptance stage is reached. Once the stages are completed healing and happiness can begin to occur.
Helping others through something we have experienced is a wonderful way to facilitate healing.