The loss of a loved one can be devastating. Whether that loss is a family member, friend, or beloved pet, there are certain stages of grief that most people experience. Here's a look at those stages.
Stages of Grief
The first stage of grief is shock. This is most apparent when a death is sudden. However, even when a person is prepared for someone to die, shock can still set in. This is a way for both the mind and body to deal with the situation.
Some people will feel calm at first because the reality of the situation hasn't quite set in, yet. A person might go about the rest of the day in a normal fashion until everything clicks and the person finally excepts that a loved one has passed on. Shock is a normal feeling to have upon learning of the loss of a loved one and this feeling will pass.
The Denial of Death
It's perfectly normal for a person to initially deny the death of someone the individual knows. This is a coping mechanism in order to avoid having to accept the passing of a special person.
This situation should only be temporary. In order to move on and heal, one needs to get past this stage.
Bereavement and Loss
The next stage that people typically enter is a stage of anger. Sometimes this anger is directed towards God. It's not uncommon for a person to turn away from God during this time.
In addition, there are those who direct their anger to the person who has passed away. Some may demand something to the effect of, "How could you do this to me?"
Bereavement Depression
The most common feeling associated with death is depression. An individual may feel lonely or abandoned. Emotional outbursts, isolation, loss of appetite, and loss of sleep are some of the more common signs of depression over the loss of a loved one.
Although common, these are situations that should only be temporary. Prolonged feelings should really be discussed with a mental health specialist.
Coping with Grief
The final stage of grief is the acceptance that a loved one is gone. The period of time this takes varies from individual to individual. It doesn't mean that a person forgets the person who has passed away, but, merely comes to terms with the situation.
A question to ask is, "Would my loved one want me to continue to grieve or want me to move on with my life?" If the answer is difficult to come by, ask yourself the same question if you were the one who had passed on. How would you want your loved ones to feel after your passing?
Allow the feelings of love to come through. Instead of feeling depressed over the tragedy of the person's passing, concentrate on all of the joy that the person or pet brought into life. Use this love to help overcome depression and appreciate all of the happiness that was gained from having this individual in life.
Words cannot even describe the emotions associated with the loss of a loved one. Going through stages of grief is perfectly normal and allows not only an emotional outlet, but, helps to lead to the road of healing.
Readers may also enjoy: Healing The Mind With Meditation.
Source:
- The Everything Ghost Book, Jason Rich, (Adams Media Corporation,) 2001.
Janis Masyk-Jackson - I'm here to seek out the truth about some of life's mysteries. There is nothing new about New Age beliefs. These are beliefs that have ...
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