How to Understand the Seven Stages of Grief
Expect shock and disbelief as the first stage., Expect denial as the second stage., Expect anger as the third stage., Expect bargaining as the fourth stage., Expect guilt as the fifth stage., Expect sorrow or depression as the sixth stage., Expect...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Expect shock and disbelief as the first stage.
Most notably the person will be very still and quiet as if they have turned into a statue.
Some people sit down upon hearing bad news and stare blankly or shake their head. -
Step 2: Expect denial as the second stage.
The person will try to make out the situation as if it has been relayed to them incorrectly often using phrases such as: "That can't be true.""You must have misunderstood.""He/She would never do that.""That can't be true.""You must have misunderstood.""He/She would never do that." "That can't be true." "You must have misunderstood." "He/She would never do that."
Depending on the person, or the nature of the event, intensity of anger can vary.
Some will use a more verbal expression while others might revert to physical anger including smashing objects or physical abuse to themselves or others. , The person might try to beg and plead, perhaps with God (if someone passed away) or with a friend (if a relationship has ended).
This is a time where their self-control and willpower will be tested the most.
As a friend, it is essential that you are there for them and objectively help them with their best interests in mind. , This could be guilt towards actions they did not take before the event occurred or even some of the actions they took while in the stages of mourning.
Often accompanied by crying, this stage is more of self-reflecting time. , While depression is apparent through all of the stages they are often overshadowed by other emotions.
This is a time where little details or statements can send a person in a frenzy of tears or seclusion from their peers. , It may seem like the person is emerging from a cave after hibernation.
While they might not be fully themselves, it is important to recognize that they are trying to reintroduce themselves into the real world after their time of mourning.
The person my not entirely outgoing or into late night partying, but after some more time and reintegration they will be back to themselves. -
Step 3: Expect anger as the third stage.
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Step 4: Expect bargaining as the fourth stage.
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Step 5: Expect guilt as the fifth stage.
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Step 6: Expect sorrow or depression as the sixth stage.
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Step 7: Expect acceptance as the seventh stage.
Detailed Guide
Most notably the person will be very still and quiet as if they have turned into a statue.
Some people sit down upon hearing bad news and stare blankly or shake their head.
The person will try to make out the situation as if it has been relayed to them incorrectly often using phrases such as: "That can't be true.""You must have misunderstood.""He/She would never do that.""That can't be true.""You must have misunderstood.""He/She would never do that." "That can't be true." "You must have misunderstood." "He/She would never do that."
Depending on the person, or the nature of the event, intensity of anger can vary.
Some will use a more verbal expression while others might revert to physical anger including smashing objects or physical abuse to themselves or others. , The person might try to beg and plead, perhaps with God (if someone passed away) or with a friend (if a relationship has ended).
This is a time where their self-control and willpower will be tested the most.
As a friend, it is essential that you are there for them and objectively help them with their best interests in mind. , This could be guilt towards actions they did not take before the event occurred or even some of the actions they took while in the stages of mourning.
Often accompanied by crying, this stage is more of self-reflecting time. , While depression is apparent through all of the stages they are often overshadowed by other emotions.
This is a time where little details or statements can send a person in a frenzy of tears or seclusion from their peers. , It may seem like the person is emerging from a cave after hibernation.
While they might not be fully themselves, it is important to recognize that they are trying to reintroduce themselves into the real world after their time of mourning.
The person my not entirely outgoing or into late night partying, but after some more time and reintegration they will be back to themselves.
About the Author
Jean Collins
A passionate writer with expertise in creative arts topics. Loves sharing practical knowledge.
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