What are the five stages of death and dying?

As a specialist in the field of psychology and end-of-life care, I can provide an explanation of the five stages of death and dying, which were first introduced by psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross in her work on grief and loss. It's important to note that these stages are not a linear process that everyone goes through, but rather a framework to understand the complex emotions that individuals may experience when faced with their own mortality or the loss of a loved one. The five stages of death and dying are: 1. Denial: This is often the initial reaction to the news of a terminal illness or the death of a loved one. It serves as a buffer against the harsh reality of the situation. 2. Anger: Once the reality of the situation begins to set in, individuals may experience anger or rage. This can be directed at a higher power, healthcare providers, or even the deceased for leaving them. 3. Bargaining: In this stage, individuals may try to negotiate with a higher power or with themselves in an attempt to postpone or change the reality of the situation. 4. Depression: As the impending loss becomes more real, individuals may experience a deep sense of sadness and loss. This is a time of reflection and preparation for the inevitable. 5. Acceptance: This is not to be confused with happiness or giving up, but rather a state of understanding and coming to terms with the reality of the situation. It's crucial to remember that not everyone will experience all these stages, and the order can vary significantly from person to person. Grief is a highly individual process.

The five stages, denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance are a part of the framework that makes up our learning to live with the one we lost. They are tools to help us frame and identify what we may be feeling. But they are not stops on some linear timeline in grief.