After a loved one has passed away and the services have been scheduled with one of the funeral homes in O'Fallon, MO, the reality of the situation can evoke feelings of grief. Learning to navigate life without the individual is challenging for some people and understanding how the grief process works can be helpful. So, we are here with more information about the five stages to offer some clarity about the emotions. 

Denial 

Grief is complex and challenging to navigate, and everyone's experience will be different. So not every person will go through the stages the same way, or they may not have every single experience on the list, but in most cases, the first stage is denial. 

This stage helps the individual minimize the pain of the loss because it can be overwhelming for some. it takes time for an individual's mind to adjust to the loss, and this is where denial is so crucial. It helps slow down the process and allows it to be done slowly instead of all at once. 

Anger 

The typical second stage is anger, and in most cases, it is from having to adjust to this new reality and acknowledging the individual is gone. It can cause deep discomfort in some people, and anger is a more acceptable form of emotion to show, so it is a more frequent occurrence. It can also feel frustrating to be experiencing emotions, especially if the individual is not accustomed to them, so anger is a common feeling. 

Bargaining 

Bargaining is another stage, and, in most cases, this happens when the individual feels a sense of desperation about the loss. Some people will promise to do anything they can to alleviate the pain they are experiencing, and this is when some people often turn to a source outside of themselves for help. 

Depression 

Depression is common when processing grief. As the individual starts to look at the reality of what has happened and bargaining is not an option, depression will typically set in. In this stage, they feel the loss deeply, and the emotions become clearer. The individual may pull inward as the sadness is being processed, and various symptoms can arise, including some isolation, weariness, anxiety, and other indicators that processing is going on. 

Acceptance 

The last phase is acceptance when the individual understands that they cannot fight what has happened and begin to not struggle with the experience any longer. The pain may still be present, but they may not be bargaining or angry anymore. 

Planning Memorable Events Based on Compassionate Care 

Any of these stages are complicated to go through, and it can be uncomfortable to have to process. So, if a loved one is going through a loss, it can be helpful to reach out to friends and family members for support. One of the biggest considerations for picking an item to leave at the headstone is to check with the cemetery to see if they have any specific rules or regulations about what they allow.

Working with a company that understands the intricacies of loss is crucial. And if you need expert care with one of the funeral homes in O'Fallon, MO, we would love to help you through the experience from start to finish, so contact us today.