The Kübler-Ross Model of Grief

The Kübler-Ross model, a concept developed by psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, suggests five distinct stages of grief due to experiences with loss (Clarke, 2021) - denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.

Denial is a defense mechanism (Legg, 2018) to minimize the overwhelming pain of loss. When individuals process the loss of a loved one, it takes time to adjust and respond to this intense experience. Denial delays and enables people to slowly absorb and comprehend the reality of their loss (Clarke, 2021). One tends to avoid and experience shock and confusion in this stage (Gregory, 2021).

Anger is a necessary stage of grief (Legg, 2018). It is a masking effect (Clarke, 2021) since adapting to a new reality increases experiences of extreme emotional discomfort. It manifests itself in resentment or bitterness and is directed to inanimate objects or people. The inability to cope with immense pain allows anger to become a socially acceptable emotional outlet for individuals to release frustration or anxiousness (Gregory, 2021).

Bargaining is a line of defense (Legg, 2018) to alleviate pain. As individuals feel vulnerable and helpless (Gregory, 2021), they resort to making promises to a higher power in hopes of a different outcome; There will be many “If only” and “What if” statements. By bargaining, people regain a perceived sense of control to reduce feelings of confusion and loss.

When panic subsides, individuals are forced to face their reality as the loss of a beloved feels more present and unavoidable (Clarke, 2021). People begin to isolate themselves (Legg, 2018) and become less sociable to cope with the loss. As the sadness grows and one may flee from the abundance of pain (Gregory, 2021), depression is likely to occur due to their inability to reach out.

Lastly, acceptance occurs when individuals have come to terms with the major life-changing experience (Legg, 2018). Although feelings of guilt and sorrow may be present, emotional survival tactics (Clarke, 2021) such as denial, anger and bargaining are greatly reduced. In this stage, individuals attempt to re-establish normalcy and reconnect with others for support (Gregory, 2021).

Conclusion

Ultimately, the experience of grief is inevitable. Nevertheless, there are various ways to cope. Acknowledge the pain and the emotions that you are feeling. Open up and talk to someone who cares about you. Seek professional help if required. Finally, be patient with yourself; Grieving, healing and acceptance take time ("Bereavement and Grief", n.d.).

REFERENCES:

1. Bereavement and Grief (n.d.). Mental Health America. Retrieved from https://www.mhanational.org/bereavement-and-grief.

2. Clarke, J. (2021, February 12). The five stages of grief: Learning about emotions after loss can help us heal. Very Well Mind. Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com/five-stages-of-grief-4175361

3. Gregory, C. (2021, May 4). The five stages of grief: An examination of the Kubler-Ross Model. Psycom. Retrieved from https://www.psycom.net/depression.central.grief.html

4. Legg, T. J. (2018, September 25). What you should know about the stages of grief. Healthline. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/stages-of-grief