The Seven Stages of Grief

Swiss psychiatrist Elizabeth Kubler-Ross developed the first model for grieving in her 1969 book "On Death and Dying." This model described the cycle of grieving most specifically for those who had themselves been diagnosed with terminal illness. It has since expanded to seven stages.

Stage One - Shock or Disbelief

• The first manifestation of grief is shock or disbelief upon hearing catastrophic news. Additional symptoms are feelings of numbness or detachment. One refuses to think about the tragedy at hand and moves blindly through the days. This psychological response defends us from tragic news.

Stage Two - Denial

• Denial is essentially a defense mechanism of utmost proportions. The brain refuses to acknowledge "unacceptable" thoughts or emotions.

Stage Three - Anger

• Facing death can provoke a defiant response. Some might ask, "Why me?" when faced with their mortality. Others might feel profoundly wronged. Anger naturally accompanies these emotional scenarios.

Stage Four - Bargaining

• Bargaining usually involves negotiations with God and a tendency towards wishful thinking. Hoping a miracle will happen or wondering what "could have been" are aspects of this stage.

Stage Five - Guilt

• Guilt manifests itself in multiple ways. If facing your own death, you may feel guilty for leaving your children behind. If a loved one is dying, you may feel guilty they have been chosen to suffer and not you.

Stage Six - Depression

• Depression is the return to reality. Sadness and fear are natural responses for someone facing a terminal illness or the death of a loved one. During this stage, acceptance begins.

Stage Seven - Acceptance and Hope

• Eventually, the tragedy will be reincorporated into the narrative of life. While not necessarily embracing the change, the terminally ill and their families can accept its existence, realistic outcome and potential for eradication.