Stages of Grief during COVID-19

Something that has been on my mind a lot this past couple of weeks during the Coronavirus outbreak is the stages of grief. They aren't only something people go through when they lose a loved one, they can also be something people go through when there is a sudden loss of control, change in schedule without warning, severe illness, or job loss. I thought it might be helpful to review them for anyone wanting to know what they are. The best way to help someone going through these is to be supportive, even when we are struggling a bit ourselves. I think of my students who have never even heard of stages of grief. This may be helpful for them to know, so they can see they are not alone, realize this maybe normal, or so they can understand what their parent/s are going through if they've experienced a sudden job loss due to the virus interruption.

Stages of Grief  based on the Kubler-Ross model of grief
(Individuals may not experience all stages, and they may return to previous stages at times)

1. Denial: "This can't be happening."  This displays itself when a person does not accept a loss or the situation.

2. Anger: "Why is this happening to me?" When the loss is realized, a person may be come angry at themselves or others. It's normal to say, "It's not fair" or to place blame, "This is all ______'s fault."

3. Bargaining: "I will do anything to change this."  A person may try to change or delay the loss. (In the case of COVID-19 we all want to change the situation as fast as possible)

4. Depression: "What's the point of going on?"  A person may self-isolate and spend time crying and grieving. It is often a precursor to acceptance because the realization that a loss has occurred has set in.

5. Acceptance: "It's going to be OK."  Finally a person accepts their loss. He or she understands the situation logically, and come to terms emotionally with the situation.

Source: Therapist Aid LLC  TherapistAid.com