Grief is not a disorder, a disease or a sign of weakness. It is an emotional, physical and spiritual necessity, the price you pay for love. The only cure for grief is to grieve.

Initially, individuals may feel disbelief or shock, denying the reality of the loss. This can serve as a protective mechanism to help process the overwhelming emotions.

 As the reality of the loss sets in, people may feel angry. They may direct their anger at themselves, others, or even the person who has died.

This stage involves attempting to negotiate or bargain with a higher power or with the situation itself in an effort to reverse or postpone the loss. For example, a person might make promises or plead for a different outcome.

Feelings of deep sadness, emptiness, and despair are common during grief. This stage may involve withdrawing from others, experiencing sleep disturbances, loss of appetite, and other symptoms of depression.

Over time, individuals may come to terms with the reality of the loss and find a way to integrate it into their lives. Acceptance does not necessarily mean that the person is "over" the loss but rather that they have found a way to live with it and move forward.