Kubler-Ross Stages of Grief

1. Denial and Isolation

1.1. It is a normal reaction to rationalize overwhelming emotions. It is a defense mechanism that buffers the immediate shock. People block out the words and hide from the facts. This is a temporary response that carries us through the first wave of pain.

2. Anger

2.1. As the masking effects of denial and isolation begin to wear, reality and its pain re-emerge. The intense emotion is deflected from our vulnerable core, redirected and expressed instead as anger.

3. Bargaining

3.1. The normal reaction to feelings of helplessness and vulnerability is often a need to regain control. Secretly, people may make a deal with God or our higher power in an attempt to postpone the inevitable.

4. Depression

4.1. Practical

4.1.1. Sadness and regret predominate this type of depression. People worry about the costs and burial.

4.2. Subtle

4.2.1. It is our quiet preparation to separate and to bid our loved one farewell.

5. Acceptance

5.1. This phase is marked by withdrawal and calm. This is not a period of happiness and must be distinguished from depression

6. I feel that it should be noted that not everyone deals with death and dying in the same way. It is my personal opinion that this is a generalized idea of how most people deal with this inevitable life event; however, it does not encompass everyone's views.