Grieving is a natural process triggered by the loss of something or someone you valued highly. You may expect to grieve over the death of a loved one or a cherished pet, but the loss of a close friend, a romantic relationship, a job or financial security can also cause feelings of grief. Despite the fact that grieving is personal and different for each person, all who grieve share some similar experiences.
Denial
Psychiatrist Elisabeth Kubler-Ross states in her book, "On Death and Dying," that the first stage of the grieving process is denial. Initially, the truth may be so overwhelming that you cannot grasp it. The natural order of things may be so seriously disrupted that the situation may seem unreal. You may find it impossible to believe that you have a terminal illness, that your husband was killed in a car wreck or that your child is mentally ill. It may seem that these things cannot be happening to you.
Anger
Kubler-Ross identifies anger as the second stage of grieving. When there is no denying the truth any longer, anger may take over and you may look for someone or something to blame. You may even blame yourself. You may seek a logical explanation for what happened, but there may be none. The frustration of finding nothing on which to focus blame can lead to even greater anger.
Bargaining
If there is the slightest chance that the imminent tragedy can be averted, Kubler-Ross says that you may find yourself mentally bargaining with God, the universe or whatever entity you perceive to have the power to intervene. You will promise that, if your wish is granted, you will or will not do certain things in the future in return for the favors granted.
Depression
Kubler-Ross says that when bargaining does not work, and the truth is undeniable, depression can set in and make you feel as though you cannot go on or that you do not want to do so. You may lose interest in people around you and in activities that you used to enjoy. You may have trouble getting out of bed in the morning and may avoid contact with other people.
Acceptance
Acceptance is the final stage of the grieving process, according to Kubler-Ross. When you acknowledge that some things happen without a logical explanation or that accidents can happen when no one is at fault, you have begun to accept the reality of the situation and can begin to move forward with your life.
