Question

Introduction on the grieving process

Answer 1

Grief, also known as bereavement, can have physical, cognitive, behavioral, social, and philosophical dimensions to it. Many believe that grief is contained only in the realm of the loss of a loved one or friend, however, grief can be experience with any loss, or perceived loss, in a person's life such as the loss of a job, a divorce, a dying pet, or moving away from home. Grieve is a natural emotional response to a loss, or perceived loss, in one's life.

Elizabeth Kulber-Ross's model of the 5 stages of grief is the most popular source for grief counselors. This model describes the process by which people deal with grief and tragedy. The five stages are denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. Each stage presents a framework to which one can learn to live without what/who they have lost. Not everyone goes through each stage, while others bounce from stage to stage (from anger to depression then back to anger again.) Kubler Ross described the five stages of grieving process. They are listed below.

Denial and isolation

Anger

Bargaining

Depression and

Acceptance

Denial and isolation: This is the first reaction that occurs in response to terminal illness or death of loved ones. This occurs as a defense mechanism against immediate loss or pain. This helps us to overcome the first wave of pain.

Anger: As denial and isolation fades away, the reality of the grieve re-emerges and the intense emotion is redirected and expressed as anger. Anger may be on inanimate objects, dying person themselves, family or friends.

Bargaining: It is a normal reaction in situations of helplessness. The grieving person may make a deal with God or some higher power to help them to overcome the grieving phase. This is a week line of defense.

Depression: The grieving person slowly accepts the fact. He undergoes into a state of depression. Few kind words and co-operation from friends and relatives will greatly help to overcome this phase.

Acceptance: This is the final stage of grieving process where the individual accepts the realities of life and accept the change as it is. Reaching this stage in grieving process varies from person to person.