12. Bereavement and Grief Flashcards
Individuals believe the diagnosis is somehow mistaken, and cling to a false, preferable reality
Denial: Stage 1
They become frustrated, especially at proximate individuals. Certain psychological responses of a person undergoing this phase would be: “Why me?” or “How can this happen to me?”
Anger: Stage 2
Involves the hope that the individual can avoid a cause of grief. Usually, the negotiation for an extended life is made in exchange for a reformed lifestyle. People facing less serious trauma can bargain or seek compromise. Examples include the terminally ill person who “negotiates with God” to attend a daughter’s wedding
Bargaining: Stage 3
The individual despairs at the recognition of their mortality. In this state, the individual may become silent, refuse visitors, and spend much of the time mournful and sullen.
Depression: Stage 4
Individuals embrace mortality or inevitable future, or that of a loved one, or other tragic event. People dying may precede the survivors in this state, which typically comes with a calm, retrospective view for the individual, and a stable condition of emotions
Acceptance: Stage 5
Expression Across the Lifespan:
A SW should recognize when children recognize anger in grief during anger stage and provide psychoeducation for grief process.
In elderly, especially assess for suicide especially if engage in poor coping (risky behavior and drinking)