The Grieving Process

The Grieving Process

Every person grieves in their own way after the loss of a loved one. While no two journeys are the same, many people share common feelings as they work toward healing.

Grief is often described in “stages,” but these stages do not follow a set timeline. You may move in and out of different emotions, return to ones you’ve felt before, or experience several at once. This is a natural part of the healing process.

The five stages that are commonly experienced are denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Remember, there is no “right” way or “wrong” way to grieve, only your way, in your own time.

In the days and weeks after a loss, you may experience many different emotions. These feelings are often described as "stages of grief". While not everyone goes through them in the same order, knowing about them can help you understand what you may be feeling.

• Denial – At first, you may feel shock, or disbelief. This is the mind’s way of protecting you and helping you get through the earliest, most difficult days.

• Anger – As the reality of loss sets in, it’s common to feel anger, at circumstances, at others, or even at God. Anger is a natural part of grief, and allowing yourself to feel it can eventually help you begin to heal.

• Bargaining – Thoughts of “if only” or “what if” often come with loss. You may find yourself wishing you could change what happened or feeling guilt. This is a normal part of the grieving process.

• Depression – Deep sadness and emptiness can follow. These feelings are not a sign of weakness or illness, but a natural response to losing someone you love. Giving yourself space to feel this sorrow is part of moving toward healing.

• Acceptance – In time, grief softens. Acceptance does not mean forgetting, but learning to live with your loss in a way that brings peace. You may discover new routines, relationships, or sources of comfort, while always carrying the memory of your loved one with you.

Remember, grief is not a straight path, and there is no right or wrong way to move through it. You may revisit stages more than once, or feel several at the same time. Each step you take is part of your unique healing process.

How long am I going to feel this way?

Grief has no set timeline, and each person’s journey is different. Some days may feel harder than others, and healing often takes longer than expected. While there is no “right” or “wrong” amount of time to grieve, many people find that the first year brings the greatest challenges as they adjust to life after loss.

When Grief Feels Overwhelming

Sometimes grief can feel especially heavy or seem to last longer than you thought it would. This can happen when the loss is very recent, when there have been other difficult events, or when the pain feels too much to carry alone.



If you ever find that your grief feels unmanageable or is interfering with daily life, it may help to reach out for extra support. Speaking with a counselor, a support group, or a trusted professional can provide comfort and guidance as you continue your healing journey.