Stages in Response to Loss

People vary greatly in their response to LOSS, but most come to terms with it by working through a number of stages. The process outlined below highlights the sort of stages that occur as part of the healing process, but not necessarily in this exact order.

LOSS
[OF LOVED ONE, LIFESTYLE, AN IDEAL, HEALTH, PLANS, INCOME, A TREASURED POSSESSION, ETC.]

Denial – Inability to believe, Shock
Release – Acute Distress, Crying, Sighing, Breathing Changes, Sadness
Restlessness – Loss of Sleep, Loss of Appetite, Change of Habit

STRESS BUILDS UP

Isolation – Alienation, Withdrawal
Remorse (real or unreal) -“If only…”, Guilt
Panic – Can’t think, Can’t do usual tasks
Difficulty Planning – Making Decisions
Anger – Hostility, Resentment
Idealisation – How good it all was before loss.
Vulnerability – Anniversary, The odd reminder of loss
Acceptance – Situations and ability to make new plans
Hope & Confidence – Renewed Strength & Energy

ACCEPTANCE

REMEMBER
When all seems to much – Just “take a day at a time”
When all seems too much – Just “take an hour at a time”
When that seems too much – Just “take a minute at a time”
And you will get there…

When to Seek Professional Help for Stress

If you feel you cannot handle intense feelings or body sensations, or experiencing severe mood swings
If you continue to feel Chronic Tension, Confusion, Emptiness, Loss Of Control or Exhaustion and continue to experience body symptoms
If you continue to feel numb and empty, unloved and don’t want to get up and face a new day
If you continue to have bad dreams and poor sleep
If you continue to eat too much or too little, or take drugs or alcohol in excess
If you continue to have no person or group with whom to share your emotions
If your relationships seem to be suffering badly, or sexual problems develop
If you have accidents, your work performance is suffering or you have increased tendency to illness
If as a helper you are suffering “BURNOUT”

DO REMEMBER that you are basically the same person that you were before this time of stress—but you have to adapt to change.

DO REMEMBER that if you suffer too much or too long help is available.

Stages in Response to Loss