Dealing with loss Flashcards
What is greif?
A period of great sorrow
Psychologist Elisabeth Kubler-Ross has identified stages of grief associated with death and dying. These stages are typical reactions that people experience when a death has taken place. How does she feel about the timeline
Kubler-Ross tells us that one person may experience a stage very quickly, while another will remain in a stage for a long time. There is no “right” way to make your way through the process of grief, but the more you know, the more you will be able to cope with loss when it occurs.
Stages of Grief; first is Denial and Isolation describe this stage
People in this stage of grief deny what has happened. It is normal to pull back from such strong emotions. They may block out words that people say, they may try to get away from anyone who reminds them of the loss, or they may just try to avoid dealing with or facing the loss completely.
Stages of Grief; second is anger describe this stage
Sometimes, people get angry. It is another response to intense emotions and disbelief that such a loss is happening. With whom are they angry? While there may be no one to blame for the loss, that doesn’t matter much because the anger felt isn’t a logical anger. It is an emotional response to the loss.
People get angry at friends, at their families, at complete strangers, at the doctor who cannot cure the disease and even at the loved one who has left them. They also may be angry at the person for leaving them.
Stages of Grief; third is bargaining describe this stage
In this stage, people try to take control. They may think that they had more control over the situation than they did. “If only I had gone to visit him.” “If only there was another doctor or another opinion.” Sometimes, people try to secretly make deals: “If Grandma gets better, I promise to be a better person.”
Stages of Grief; fourth is depression describe this stage
In the immediate days that follow someone’s death, we are usually surrounded by friends and family who support the grieving individuals in a group setting. Later, as time goes on, we often experience a time of more private grieving that sometimes result in feelings of sadness. It is absolutely normal to be sad at this time, however if the sadness persists for a longer period of time and leads to an inability to go about your daily life, you may be suffering from depression, which you should seek treatment for.
Stages of Grief; fifith is acceptance describe this stage
Acceptance is reached when a person is able to experience some peace after the loss.This stage is marked by calm recognition of the loss. This does not mean that the person is happy with the loss, just that he has accepted it.
How to Cope With the Death of a Loved One; before a death:
- If you have a loved one who is dying, make sure you visit him often and tell him how much you care. It may be hard to do, but you will be glad that you did it and it will help your grieving process later when you remember how much it meant to both of you.
- Listen to your loved one if he wants to talk about his death, his illness, or the past. Many older people have fond memories they want to share with you and it is a comfort to talk about them.
- Talk about your life, what you did that day, what plans you have for the future, or just any topic that comes up. Even though the loved one might not be there to see it, they will like hearing about all your plans.
How to Cope With the Death of a Loved One after a death:
- Talking about the death of a loved one is not easy, but talking helps. Discussing the death, asking questions, and reaching out to family members who are feeling the same loss will help everyone.
- Turn to friends. People often want to help, but they dont know how. Tell them what you need–even if it is just some company.
- Get back to your routine. This doesnt mean you forget what happened, but it will help take your mind off the loss.
- Express your feelings in a creative way. Keep a journal and write down your memories of the person, the good times you had with him, or the stories he told you. Make a scrapbook of pictures or an online photo album celebrating the persons life, or get involved in an organization that was important to him.
- Look after your physical health. Your mind and body are connected. When you grieve, it takes a toll on you physically. Get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and maintain your physical activities.
- Remember that special days and holidays may be particularly difficult. The loved one’s birthday, Christmas, and even your own birthday may cause sadness when you remember the loss.
- Make sure you let someone know if you feel overwhelmed by grief.
Remember that there is no right way to grieve. Give yourself some time to adjust.