Understanding Grief: The Different Stages and Their Impact on Mental Health in Mandeville, LA

Grief is a natural response to loss. While grief affects everyone differently, there are stages that define the specific emotional challenges associated with the grieving process. Pierce Counseling & Mental Health Collective in Mandeville, Louisiana, explains the stages of grief, their impact on mental health, and the importance of seeking a supportive, safe environment to promote healing.

What Are the Stages of Grief?

Each person’s path through grief is deeply personal. As defined by psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, the stages of grief are denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Remember that not everyone experiences all of these emotions, and the grieving process is not linear—this is simply a framework for understanding the wide range of feelings related to grief.

· Denial. This is often the first reaction to a loss and may feel like numbness, disbelief, or detachment. While denial can be a helpful temporary shield, prolonged denial can make it difficult to process emotions.

· Anger. Frustration and resentment surface as we begin to accept reality. While it’s a necessary part of healing, unaddressed anger can affect relationships, self-esteem, and mental health.

· Bargaining. Individuals may focus on hypothetical situations during bargaining, reflecting a desire to regain control. Bargaining can bring feelings of guilt, leading to a spiral of negative thoughts.

· Depression. Many individuals fully grasp the magnitude of their loss at this stage. People may experience sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, and decreased energy and motivation.

· Acceptance. Acceptance marks a shift from surviving to thriving with the memory of the lost connection. As acceptance grows, individuals may find a renewed sense of purpose and improved mental health.

Grief can cause significant challenges in daily functioning. Some people may experience physical symptoms, including fatigue, appetite changes, or sleep disturbances. A compassionate therapist can help ease this weight by offering a space to process each stage of grief and promote emotional, mental, and physical well-being.

Consider Reaching Out to a Professional

At Pierce Counseling & Mental Health Collective, we support individuals as they heal from grief and help them lead more peaceful, balanced lives. If you’d like to work with a professional therapist for empathetic care during this difficult time, contact us to schedule an appointment for therapy in Mandeville, LA.