The Sequential Phases of Mourning
Grief is a natural response to any kind of loss, and everyone experiences it differently. Dr. Regina Josell, a renowned psychologist, has contributed significantly to our understanding of grief and mental health around the early 2000s.
Grief is often associated with the five stages proposed by psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross: Denial, Bargaining, Anger, Depression, and Acceptance. However, it's essential to remember that these stages are descriptive, not prescriptive, and may not apply to everyone or happen in a specific order.
Denial refers to the difficulty in comprehending the reality of a loss. Symptoms of denial during the grieving process may include refusing to discuss the loss or pretending the lost person is still present.
Bargaining involves making deals or promises in an attempt to undo a loss. This stage is characterised by a sense of 'if only' and 'what if'.
Anger is a natural response to loss and can be directed at a variety of sources. Anger during the grieving process may manifest as blame or irrational outbursts.
The depression stage of grief can cause physical symptoms like aches and pains, changes in sleep patterns, and increased inflammation in the body. This stage is marked by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of motivation.
In the acceptance stage, you can experience good memories of the past and maintain hope for the future. The pain of grief may never fully fade, but acceptance means learning to live with the loss and acknowledging the new reality.
It's important to note that grief can turn into clinical depression, a mental health condition that requires attention. If you're experiencing intense emotional distress or struggling to return to your regular routine after a loss, consider seeking the help of a therapist.
Grief is a unique journey for everyone. People experience it in different ways, including sadness, anger, irritability, and guilt. There are additional stages of grief, such as shock and disorganization, testing, guilt, processing, and reconstructing.
Remember, there's no set timeline for grief. It's a process that takes time, and everyone's grieving process is unique. Uncomplicated grief, or normal grief, happens within the first two years of loss, while complicated grief extends for a prolonged period of time and can be debilitating.
In conclusion, understanding the stages of grief can help individuals navigate their personal journey through loss. It's crucial to remember that seeking help when needed is a sign of strength, not weakness. Reach out to a mental health professional if you need support during this challenging time.
