Grief, whether from losing a loved one through death or the end of a relationship, follows a similar emotional process which can lead to depression and anxiety. You may be filled with regrets and guilt, wishing there was more you could’ve done, and more you could have said following a loss or failed relationship. You catch yourself wondering where it all went wrong.
The only ones who understand what you are going through are those who have been through it themselves. Although your feelings differ from theirs, no one can fully understand what is happening within you.
Therefore everyone grieves differently. The general stages of grief can help you understand and navigate your emotions.
- Shock & Denial
- You may feel numb, in disbelief, or unable to accept the loss which will leave you in ‘limbo’ until you accept what is.
- There’s a sense of “this can’t be happening.”
- This stage serves as an emotional buffer, helping you gradually process the reality of the situation.
- Pain & Guilt
- As denial fades, intense emotions like sadness, regret, or guilt emerge. If you are unable to manage your emotions, it is recommended to get the necessary help to process what you are experiencing. Otherwise, the other option you may choose is to suppress your emotions, which has consequences of limiting you in life.
- You may replay past moments, wondering if you could have done something differently which only leads to self-blame, hurt and sadness. You did the best you could at the time.
- It’s important to allow yourself to feel without judgment—grief is a natural process.
- Anger & Blame
- You might feel anger toward yourself, the other person, or even life itself.
- If the loss was sudden, feelings of unfairness and betrayal can surface. This is a sign that you’re processing the pain rather than suppressing it.
- Your anger can be diverted to another person, which is unfair to them. Be fully aware of your emotions and seek out help for any anger that emerges.
- Bargaining
- You may find yourself thinking, “If only I had done this differently…” or “What if I had another chance?”
- In cases of a breakup, you may try to rekindle the relationship, hoping things can go back to how they were.
- This stage is about trying to regain control over what feels like an uncontrollable situation.
- Depression & Deep Sadness
- Reality fully sets in, leading to deep sadness, loneliness, and withdrawal.
- This stage can feel endless, but it is a sign that you are fully acknowledging your loss.
- Seeking support, journaling, or engaging in self-care can help.
- Read more about depression by clicking here
- Acceptance & Growth
- You begin to make peace with the loss and see a path forward.
- The pain doesn’t disappear completely, but it becomes more manageable.
- You start to rebuild your life, focusing on new goals, relationships, or a sense of purpose.
- When you are in a space of love and acceptance instead of grief and loss, you can move forward with love in your heart.
- Rebuilding & Moving Forward
- This is the stage where you integrate the experience into your life without being controlled by it.
- In cases of a breakup, you embrace new opportunities and relationships.
- If grieving a loved one, you honor their memory while continuing to live fully.
How to Navigate Grief Healthily
- Allow Yourself to Feel: Suppressing emotions can prolong grief.
- Seek Support: Talk to friends, family, or a Transformational Coach
- Practice Self-Care: Prioritize your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
- Create New Routines: Structure can help you regain stability.
- Honour the Loss: Through journaling, ceremonies, or meaningful actions.
- Give Yourself Time: Healing isn’t linear—be patient with yourself.
Rather than being in a state of denial, face your truth and what you are feeling. Suppressed feelings only lead to depression, anxiety, anger, sadness and other limiting emotions, which can possibly also lead to illness. Live your life with peace of mind, be happy in a space of love and acceptance. Call me today for one free 45-minute session.