After the death of a loved one, you have to make funeral plans while going through the grieving process. If their passing was unexpected, the intensity of this experience can be magnified. However, by learning about the stages of grief, you can better understand what you’re going through and cope with the emotional swings as you begin to heal. Here’s a brief guide to the stages of grief. 

Understanding the Stages of Grief

1. Denial

Even while making funeral plans, you may still feel a sense of denial, which is completely normal. You may have dreams about your loved one still being alive, and you may even forget that they have passed. Feeling denial is your mind’s way of shielding you from the overwhelming emotional anguish.

2. Anger

After the denial dissipates, anger is the next stage of grief. Your anger could be aimed at a person or event that you blame for the death. Alternatively, you may just feel mad at the world or angry with yourself.

3. Bargaining

When you’re in the bargaining stage, you might try to strike a deal with your version of God, especially if you are a religious person. For example, you could mentally negotiate the return of your loved one in exchange for doing charity work or being a nicer person.

4. Depression

After the funeral plans are complete and the service is held, it’s common for the depression stage to begin. It’s normal to be overcome with sadness, even to the point of avoiding contact with others. You may feel that no one else can truly understand your pain. If you believe the depression stage is lingering for an exceedingly long time, contact the funeral home so they can recommend a grief counselor. A professional can help you to process your feelings and cope.

5. Acceptance

The fifth stage is when you finally begin to regain a sense of peace. It may feel like a weight is lifted off your shoulders as you wrap your head around what happened. Being able to accept the death and to go back to living your life—while still keeping your loved one in your heart—are important parts of the grieving process.

When you need to make funeral plans, contact the compassionate team at Abriola Parkview Funeral Home. Since 1906, our family-run funeral home in Trumbull, CT, has been supporting residents of Fairfield County and the Greater Bridgeport community by offering funeral planning services, cremation options, and other assistance. Visit our website to learn more about our services, or call (203) 373-1013 to speak with one of our funeral directors.