Stages Of Grief - Part II Of II
In continuation from yesterday…
Guilt: Once the shock of losing your dearly departed begins to wear off, many people experience guilt during the grieving process. These feelings of remorse over what you did or did not do with or for your loved one can be unbearable. When the death is expected, it is normal to feel relief when a death occurs. Those feelings of relief often lead to feelings of guilt that you do feel relief. It is important that you experience this pain fully as it will help you achieve your ultimate goal of acceptance of your loved ones death. Most people who have suffered a loss have reported that this is the hardest stage to encounter.
Anger: Once the loss of your dearly departed begins to sink in, it is normal to feel anger towards your dearly departed, other family members, doctors, friends or even yourself. People often ask the question of … “Why me?” during this stage. When you are angry, it is easy to push people away from you when you need their support the most. Letting go of bottled up anger is wise so that you can move through this stage easier.
Depression: This stage of the grief process can come on when you least expect it or with gradual progression. At times people may think you are getting along with your life as normal when in actuality; you are experiencing a period of sad reflection. You may find that you isolate yourself and have feelings of emptiness and despair. Realizing the true magnitude of your loss and feeling sad about it, is absolutely normal. Some people find solace with others who are grieving or seek counseling. Many people draw on their religious faith, or seek a support group specifically designed for grieving, while others work through this stage alone.
Acceptance: During this stage of grief, you learn to accept and deal with the reality of your loss. Acceptance will help you find a way to move forward in your life. Eventually the burden of sadness that you feel will lessen and you will look forward and plan things for your future once again.
Experiencing each of the stages of grief can be very painful, but they will help you eventually return to what now is your new normal life. The saying “Time heals all wounds.” is only partially correct. Over time the pain of losing your dearly departed will diminish, but will likely never completely disappear. Surrounding yourself with loving support through the grieving process will help you find balance and comfort so peace can be found once again.