The Five Stages of Grief

The Lovely Bones

Stage #1: Denial & Isolation

• We deny the reality of the situation. • A defense mechanism that buffers the

immediate shock of what has happened. • Hide from the facts of a case and block out the

real world around us.

Stage #2: Anger

• As you move from stage one to two, reality and pain re-emerge.

• The intense emotion is deflected and is redirected and expressed as anger. The anger may be aimed at inanimate objects, complete strangers, friends or family.

• Anger might be redirected at the problem, even though we know it’s not to be blamed.

Stage #3: Bargaining

• This is the need to regain control of the situation, using “If only….” statements.

• We may make a deal with a higher power in an attempt to postpone the inevitable (for a sick person).

Stage #4: Depression

• Two types of depression: – Sadness, regret, worry and anxiety. • This can be eased by reassurance and helpful

cooperation.

– Quiet preparation to separate and to bid our loved one farewell. • More personal and private.

• People in this stage could experience a disconnect from things of love and affection.

Stage #5: Acceptance

• Not everyone gets to this stage. • Learning to move on and withdrawal from the

situation. • Comes with a calm, retrospective view for the

individual and a stable mindset. – Remembering the good times…