7 Stages of Grief: What They Are & How to Cope
Grief is a deeply personal journey, and everyone experiences it differently. Understanding the 7 stages of grief — sometimes called the seven stages of mourning or bereavement — can help you process emotions and find a path toward healing. Below, we explain each stage and share tips to cope in healthy ways.
The 7 Stages of Grief Explained
1. Shock and Denial
- What It Feels Like: You might feel numb or in disbelief. It’s as if the world has paused.
- Why It Happens: This stage protects you from the immediate emotional pain.
- How to Cope: Allow yourself time to absorb the news. Write down your feelings or talk to someone who can listen.
2. Pain and Guilt
- What It Feels Like: Intense sadness and guilt often surface. You may replay memories and wish you had acted differently.
- Why It Happens: This is part of processing the reality of your loss.
- How to Cope: Don’t shy away from your feelings. Consider grief therapy to help process these emotions.
3. Anger and Bargaining
- What It Feels Like: Anger can be directed toward yourself, others, or even the situation. You might find yourself making bargains with fate.
- Why It Happens: Anger is a way to regain some control over a chaotic situation.
- How to Cope: Express your anger in healthy ways, such as through art, writing, or physical activity.
4. Depression, Reflection, and Loneliness
- What It Feels Like: Deep sadness and feelings of isolation take over. You may withdraw from others.
- Why It Happens: This stage allows you to reflect on the loss and its impact on your life.
- How to Cope: Connect with grief support groups or professionals who understand your pain.
5. The Upward Turn
- What It Feels Like: You may start to notice a shift. The intensity of emotions begins to ease.
- Why It Happens: This is a sign of healing and moving forward.
- How to Cope: Celebrate small victories. Engage in activities that bring you joy or comfort.
6. Reconstruction and Working Through
- What It Feels Like: You start rebuilding your life and creating new routines.
- Why It Happens: You’re learning to integrate your loss into your new reality.
- How to Cope: Seek grief counselling to gain tools for moving forward effectively.
7. Acceptance and Hope
- What It Feels Like: Acceptance means acknowledging your loss and finding a way to move forward.
- Why It Happens: This stage allows for healing and the possibility of new experiences.
- How to Cope: Carry your loved ones’ memories with you while embracing the future. Look for ways to honour their legacy.
Why the Seven Stages of Grief Aren’t Always Linear
It’s important to remember that the 7 stages of grief (also called the seven stages of mourning or 7 steps of grief) aren’t always in a strict order you must follow. Many people move back and forth between stages, skip some stages, or even experience the grieving stages in a completely different order — and that’s normal.
Grief is a very personal journey. The seven stages of grieving are meant to guide you in understanding your emotions, not act as a fixed checklist. Be patient with yourself and allow your healing process to take the time it needs. Whether you experience all 7 stages of grief or just a few, every path to acceptance is unique.
Finding Support During the 7 Stages of Grief
Grieving can be incredibly isolating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Connecting with others can provide comfort and understanding. Whether through friends, family, or support groups, sharing your experiences can ease the burden of grief. If you’re struggling with grief and depression, consider seeking professional help.
FAQ: Seven Stages of Grief & Healing
Q: What are the 7 stages of grief?
A: The 7 stages of grief include Shock, Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, Testing, and Acceptance. They help explain the emotional responses people often experience after loss.
Q: Do you have to go through all seven stages of grief?
A: No, not everyone experiences every stage, and the order may vary. Grief is a personal journey and can look different for each individual.
Q: How long do the 7 stages of grief last?
A: There is no set timeline for grief. It can last weeks, months, or even years, depending on the individual and the nature of their loss.
Q: Can therapy help with the seven stages of grief?
A: Yes, therapy provides support and tools to cope with emotional pain, making it easier to process and navigate the stages of grief in a healthy way.
Find Emotional Support with Mimood
Grief can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Mimood offers online programs and therapy support to help you navigate the seven stages of grief at your own pace.
