Understand the Bereavement Process
The death of a loved one is perhaps the most distressing time in a person's life. Understanding cope with loss varies based upon the circumstances of those involved. Learn the typical stages a person experiences as they navigate through the bereavement process.
Instructions
1. Know that the first stage in the bereavement process is denial and disbelief. During this period, an individual psychologically blocks their loss as unrealistic or they attempt to discredit the news of the loss as improbable.
2. Realize that the second stage is alarm. This stage finds the person in the throws of vulnerability as it relates to death. This may be accompanied by physiological symptoms related to anxiety and fear.
3. Understand the next stage is an urgent desire to search for the deceased person. This might mean actually seeing the deceased person themselves. For some, this meeting is a confirmation of their loss or a small step towards accepting what has happened.
4. Learn that the fourth stage is anger and guilt. This is particularly difficult if the loss of a loved one was sudden or unexpected. The grieving individual may seek to find who or what was responsible for their loved one's loss. They may blame themselves for not "being there" or "doing something different" to prevent the loss.
5. Recognize bargaining as the fifth stage in the bereavement process. If the grieving person is anticipating the imminent death of a loved one, bargaining may happen even before the loved one dies. If the loved one is deceased, the grieving individual may attempt bargaining with doctors or with God in order to bring their loved one back.
6. Realize that despair and depression are the sixth stage. This is when the person comprehends that they cannot change the outcome of the loved one's death. There is a genuine feeling of loneliness and loss. During this stage, an individual may withdraw from social interactions.
7. Know the next stage involves pathological variants. At this point, an individual either moves on to acceptance or becomes locked in this stage until they are able to grieve. It is unhealthy both physically and emotionally to remain stuck in this stage for a lengthy period of time.
8. Understand that acceptance is the eighth stage. At this point, the person begins to make decisions about what path their life must take next. Individuals either learn to accept the loss or carry on while resigned to non-acceptance.
9. Enjoy the final stage of bereavement. It entails reorganization. At this stage the individual begins to create a new identity without involving their loved one. For some, this includes a major lifestyle change or a restructuring period.
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