Grief is the emotional response to any type of loss. Perhaps of a loved one due to death or divorce. Or perhaps the loss of a job, a pet, financial stability, or safety after experiencing a trauma. Feelings of grief can be overwhelming and it can be hard to know how to manage and overcome your emotions. It is important to have patience with yourself and others during this process, as it is a healthy part of healing. If you are having trouble coping on your own or if you know someone who is struggling and could use extra support, please contact a professional counselor.
There is no orderly process for passing through stages of anger, denial, and acceptance. Everyone experiences loss differently based on their personality, culture, beliefs, and many other factors.
The 5 stages of grief include: Shock, Denial, Anger/Guilt, Despair/Depression, Acceptance.
Common symptoms of grief include:
- Shock and disbelief: feeling numb about the event, having trouble believing it happened, denying it, or expecting to suddenly see the person you lost.
- Sadness: crying, or having feelings of emptiness, despair, yearning, or loneliness.
- Guilt: regret over things unsaid or undone, feeling responsible for the death or the event, or shame from feeling relieved by a person’s passing.
- Anger: blaming someone for injustice.
- Fear: feelings of anxiety, helplessness, and insecurity, or having panic attacks.
- Physical symptoms: fatigue, nausea, weight loss or gain, aches and pains, and insomnia.
Coping with Grief and Loss
An important part of healing is knowing that you are not alone. Seek support from your friends, family, or faith, or join a bereavement support group. Sharing your loss can make the grieving process easier. Remember to take care of yourself; to eat, sleep, and exercise even when you’re too stressed or fatigued to do so. A healthy addition is to seek the help of a professional counselor, who can help you work through your intense emotions and feelings in a safe environment.