The 7 Stages of Grieving

The 7 stages of grieving describe the emotional process many experience after loss. They typically include: Shock and denial, where initial disbelief occurs; Anger, feeling upset or frustrated; Bargaining, trying to regain control through "what if" thoughts; Depression, deep sadness and withdrawal; Testing, seeking understanding or coping strategies; Acceptance, coming to terms with the reality; and Hope, beginning to envision a new normal. These stages aren’t strictly sequential, and individuals may revisit them or experience them simultaneously. Understanding these phases can help make sense of your feelings and facilitate healing over time.