Grief is most commonly associated with death but may be experienced at any time of great loss. Grief is often experienced as a series of emotional responses that can be broken down into stages. During work in the 1940s, Dr. Eric Lindemann identified six stages of the acute grief process: somatic distress, pre-occupation, guilt, hostility, changes in behavior and identification with the deceased. The period of acute grief typically lasts around six weeks.
Somatic Distress
Somatic distress is a collection of physical symptoms experienced in the first 20 to 60 minutes after a loss. Muscle weakness, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest and throat and a feeling of emptiness in the stomach may all occur during the immediate time after the death of a loved one. Many people describe feelings of intense mental pain or anguish during this period, according to Help Starts Here.
Pre-Occupation With the Deceased
Individuals may be pre-occupied by thoughts of the lost loved one. Vivid dreams and visual or auditory hallucinations are common and normal as a part of acute grief. Images and memories of the loss may be overwhelming. This searching behavior may include a feeling of depersonalization and sense that life is not real, according to the Encyclopedia of Death and Dying.
Guilt
You may feel guilty or regretful about aspects of your relationship with the deceased or responsible for his death, according to Helpguide. Some people may experience guilt over their emotional reactions and responses, including feelings of relief, comfort or acceptance.
Hostility
Hostility and anger are another aspect of the six stages of acute grieving. You may feel angry about the death, your loss or simply angry in general. You may blame others, God or yourself for the death. Some people experience hostility or anger toward the lost loved one.
Behavioral Changes
Changes in behavior are a normal part of the grieving process. Loss of appetite or sexual desire, restlessness and an inability to focus are common experiences during the acute grieving process. Insomnia, depression and crying are typical; however, it is also normal not to cry and to experience and process acute grief in different ways.
Identification
Some people may identify with the lost loved one, assuming behaviors or mannerisms of that person or even experiencing symptoms similar to those that caused the death. They may develop an attachment to possessions of the deceased, choosing to wear or sleep with a favorite shirt or other item, according to Help Starts Here.
