01/24/2026
Understanding Grief:
Grief is a deeply personal journey that we all experience in different ways. After a loss, it’s common to feel a wide range of emotions that may come and go unpredictably. To help make sense of this process, psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross introduced the concept of the Five Stages of Grief. These stages don’t represent a strict timeline, but rather a way of understanding the shifting emotions that come with loss.
1. Denial. In the beginning, many people experience shock, disbelief, or numbness. Denial acts as a protective mechanism, softening the blow of overwhelming reality. Common thought: “This can’t be happening.”
2. Anger. As reality sets in, anger often arises. This can involve frustration, resentment, or even blame—toward oneself, others, or even the person who has died. Common thought: “Why me? This isn’t fair.”
3. Bargaining: Bargaining often reflects a deep wish to change the outcome. People may find themselves negotiating with a higher power or with themselves, imagining what could have been done differently. Common thought: “If only I had done something sooner.”
4. Depression. Sadness is a natural and expected part of grief. This stage may involve withdrawal, hopelessness, or feeling overwhelmed by the loss. Common thought: “Life feels too hard without them.”
5. Acceptance. Acceptance doesn’t mean the pain disappears—it means coming to terms with the reality of the loss and finding ways to move forward. Even while still feeling grief, people begin to rebuild their lives with a new sense of meaning. Common thought: “It’s real, and I’m learning to live with it.”
If you’re grieving, allow yourself compassion. If someone you love is grieving, offering understanding and presence—without pressure to “move on”—can be one of the most supportive things you can do.