Cycles of Grief and Loss
People's first reaction in the cycle. Affects people in different ways, can feel numb, withdrawn, detached, disoriented.
What is shock?
A part of life. A strong, sometimes overwhelming reaction to death, divorce, job loss, a move, loss of health/relationship, and more.
What is grief?
"This can't be happening."
In the first few weeks and months feeling unbearable, people feel there is little purpose in life.
What is despair and depression?
"Why is this happening to me?"
What is anger?
It is common to wish to find blame and to be asking oneself "Why me?"
What is anger and guilt?
Trembling or shakiness, muscle weakness, nausea and trouble eating, trouble sleeping or difficulty breathing, dry mouth
What are physical reactions to grief?
"What's the point of going on after this loss?"
What is depression?
A stage in which people cannot accept the reality of the loss.
What is denial?
"It's going to be okay."
What is acceptance?
After time passes, and pain eases, we are able to recall the past without feelings of devestation.
What is acceptance?
"I will do anything to change this"
What is bargaining?