Stages of Grief

At some time in our lives, all of us must face the reality of death. Understanding the 10 stages of grief can help make the process easier.

1. Shock and Surprise
   News of someone’s death is always a shock. 
2. Emotional Release
   This is only the beginning of the grief process.
3. Loneliness
   After the funeral, when family and friends have gone home, loneliness and depression can begin.
4. Physical Distress
   A grieving person can develop physical symptoms.
5. Panic
   Feelings of losing control are common.
6. Guilt
   The surviving person dwells on things that could have been done for the deceased. 
7. Hostility and Rejection
   Survivors sometimes blame friends and relatives for not doing enough for the deceased.
8. Lassitude 
   A person suffers in silence and at times, may contemplate suicide.
9. Gradual overcoming of grief
   This stage may begin as early as four weeks or as long as a year or more.
10. Readjustment
    People reach this stage at varying times.