The Grieving Process, identified by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, consists of five stages:
denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. These stages represent the emotional and psychological experiences individuals may go through when faced with a significant loss or life-altering event. Denial involves refusing to accept the reality of the loss, which can lead to shock, disbelief, and numbness.
Anger occurs when individuals feel frustrated, resentful, and irritable, often directed towards themselves, others, or the person they have lost. Bargaining involves attempting to negotiate or make deals to change the outcome or alleviate pain, often turning to religion or spirituality for a different outcome.
Depression occurs when individuals feel deep sadness, despair, and loneliness, leading to withdrawal from others, loss of interest in activities, and changes in appetite and sleep patterns. Acceptance is the final stage, where individuals come to terms with the reality of the loss and begin to find a way forward. It is important to note that not everyone experiences these stages in a linear or predictable manner, as grief is a deeply personal and individual process. Additionally, these stages may not apply to every situation or culture, as grieving processes can vary.