The Five Stages of Grief

Denial and Isolation: Initially, introversion can be expected and this is okay to experience this. A temporary seclusion can be welcomed and even healthy when you have experienced loss; it’s just important that it does not continue on too long.

Anger: Feelings of anger at the injustice of the loss of a loved one is a normal part of grief. Conversely, dwelling in this state for too long or becoming overly ingrained in it can indicate a problem.

Bargaining: The bargaining phase can be tricky and is very exclusive to the situation. This phase may be minimal when the loss is of an older person or due to a natural death. When the circumstances are more controversial or seemingly unfair, this phase can take on a number of different looks.

Depression: Some sadness is to be expected. The creation of a new normal is entirely normal. A prolonged or intense depression may not be, so keeping a close eye on someone exhibiting a severe depressive state after a loss is important.

Acceptance: Reaching a level of acceptance in your own time. The level of acceptance can be varied from one person to the next. The acceptance of the loss of a spouse may mean that survivors take up new activities and hobbies never before considered. Conversely, it can also mean that the surviving spouse immerses themselves in things formerly only beheld to the deceased. In either case, or anything in between, this can be a normal way to stay connected, so long as the person is working toward genuine happiness.