Understanding The Stages of Grief

Grief affects different people differently. There’s no clear path or a set timeline to recovery, but understanding the stages of grief can help through the process. At Willowbrook Cemetery, we always encourage family members to consider these stages carefully as that can help them be more patient and understanding.

1. Denial

Whether the death is sudden or gradual, everyone experiences a period of denial. They reject the facts and are in a limbo, which can stall their healing process.

2. Anger

Anger is an explosion of emotion but it acts as a healthy outlet for all of the grief and pain inside. It is alright to be angry at the world or even the deceased for leaving you behind. That’s a natural emotion that will eventually fade away quickly.

3. Bargaining

Bargaining is possibly the most painful stage of grief because it can make you feel helpless. It is where people try to look back with the benefit of hindsight and wonder what they could have done to prevent death. You ask questions like ‘should I have dropped her off instead of letting her drive at night?’ or ‘should I have forced him to go to the doctor sooner?’ These questions only lead to self-blame and that can hamper your healing process.

4. Depression

Depression and sadness sets in once you accept reality. This is the longest stage because people can linger in it for months, if not years. Depression can cause feelings of helplessness, sadness, and lack of enthusiasm.

5. Acceptance

Eventually, people accept the loss and move on from it. You will still feel the absence of a loved one but it won’t hurt as much as it used to. People at this stage are more likely to remember positive memories.

If you want to know more or need to book a service, just give us at Willowbrook Cemetery a call on (203) 222-8646 or contact us through our online form.