An Orlando Therapist Explains 5 Stages of Grief
An Orlando Therapist Explains 5 Stages of Grief
Written by: Lauran Hahn, LMHC
Grief is something most people experience after a significant loss. Still, it can leave you feeling stuck and unsure of how to move forward. You may experience guilt for wanting to continue with life, fear of forgetting your loved one, or confusion after losing a meaningful relationship or job. You may have no energy for social interactions and everyday tasks, struggle to concentrate, and feel guilty about taking time to grieve. Communicating your feelings about the loss can also be challenging. You might have many questions, such as, "How long will this pain last? Is it normal to feel angry? When will I start to feel better? Will I ever truly move on? Why do I feel so alone?"
As an Orlando Therapist, I want to help you understand the stages of grief and what to expect throughout the grieving process.
At Mindful Living Counseling in Orlando, our experienced therapists are here to help you navigate your emotions with compassion, support, and guidance so you can heal in a way that feels right for you.
Understanding Grief and Its Stages
We inevitably face losses that create a profound emptiness throughout our lives, even though we know they are unavoidable. Whether it's the death of a loved one, the end of a significant relationship, loss of health, miscarriage, infertility, job loss, relocation, or loss of safety, these experiences lead to a deep grieving period for most people. While grief is a natural response to loss, it can feel overwhelming and unpredictable. It affects everyone differently. There's no "right" way to grieve or a set timeline for healing.
The emotions that come with loss can be challenging to process, but understanding the five stages of grief can provide clarity and reassurance during this journey.
The 5 Stages of Grief: What to Expect
Psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross introduced the five stages of grief to describe the emotional experiences of individuals facing the end of life. Over time, this model has also been recognized as a framework for understanding the complex emotions that arise when coping with loss.
Grief is deeply personal and does not follow a fixed pattern. You may move back and forth between the stages or even skip certain stages altogether. Still, these five stages of grief can offer insight into the ways people process and navigate their emotions during difficult times. The key is recognizing that grief is unique to each person and allowing yourself the space to heal at your own pace.
1. Shock and Denial: "This Can't Be Happening"
In the first hours, days, or weeks following the loss, you may think, "This isn't real," "This is not happening," or "There must be some mistake." Denial is often the first reaction to a loss. It serves as a temporary defense mechanism, buffering the immediate shock and shielding you against overwhelming emotions until your brain processes the news. Denial helps you process loss at a pace your mind can handle, giving you time to adjust before the full weight of reality sets in. During this stage, you may feel numb, in shock, or find yourself avoiding conversations about the loss.
Gently remind yourself of the reality of the loss in ways that feel manageable, but give yourself time, acknowledging that denial is part of the process.
2. Anger: "This Isn't Fair!"
Some of the first emotions you may experience after the loss are pain, despair, and helplessness. Anger arises as a natural response to these feelings. You may keep repeating, "Why did this happen?" "Why me?" "I don't deserve this!" or "I'm so mad at the world!" You may demand answers, directing your anger at yourself, others, doctors, fate, a higher power, or even the person you've lost. You might feel frustrated with family or friends who "don't understand."
Therapy at this stage can help normalize that anger is a valid emotion as a part of processing the deep pain of loss, encouraging you to express anger in healthy ways, such as journaling or physical activity. A therapist can also help you explore the deeper emotions beneath your anger.
3. Bargaining: "What If I..."
Thoughts such as "If only I had gone with them..." "I should have seen the signs." "I could have prevented it." and "I would do anything to bring them back." may overwhelm your mind as it tries to regain control in an uncontrollable situation. You may endlessly dwell on things you wish you had done differently to prevent the loss or change the outcome, feeling guilty and questioning every decision you made. This stage of grief often comes with a deep sense of regret and self-blame. You may be feeling emotionally exhausted and stuck in a cycle of "what ifs."
A therapist can help reframe these thoughts and recognize that loss is not your fault, easing self-blame and guilt.
4. Depression: "It Hurts So Much"
Grief-related depression is a natural response to loss as the reality of loss settles in. You may feel overwhelmed by sadness and loneliness, emotionally and physically drained, and lack the energy to engage with the world around you. Even simple tasks like cooking or driving kids to school can feel overwhelming, and the loneliness of grief may make it seem as if no one truly understands your pain. Sleeping might feel impossible as your mind replays memories, unanswered questions, or the painful reality of your loss.
While these feelings are a natural part of the grieving process, you don't have to go through them alone—seeking support from loved ones or a therapist can help you find moments of comfort and strength. Make self-care practices like mindfulness or gentle exercises your daily habits to nurture your mind and body.
5. Acceptance: "Finding a New Normal"
Acceptance doesn't mean the pain is gone. It means you begin to understand and accept the loss while finding ways to move forward. You may start feeling ready to engage with life again, rebuilding routines, finding joy in small moments, and making peace with what happened, feeling a sense of peace alongside your grief.
To move forward, look for ways to honor your loved one and consider therapy if you need guidance in embracing life while carrying your grief.
Ready to Start With an Orlando Therapist?
Grief is not something you have to rush through. Healing takes time, so be patient with yourself, honor your emotions, and allow yourself the space to heal at your own pace. You don't have to navigate this process alone. At Mindful Living Counseling in Orlando, our compassionate therapists can bring comfort and clarity whether you're struggling with overwhelming emotions, guilt, or uncertainty about the future.
Fill out our New Client Consultation form here.
Once you complete the form, you’ll be invited to schedule a 15-minute phone consultation with one of our Orlando therapists.
Get ready to start healing!
Not Quite Ready for Orlando Therapy?
That’s okay—we’re here to support you at every step of your journey. At Mindful Living Counseling, we understand that seeking therapy can feel overwhelming. In the meantime, we invite you to explore our expert-guided resources designed to help you navigate stress, build resilience, and find moments of calm.
Orlando Therapist Resources
Orlando Anxiety Therapist Shares: How to Handle Life's Curveballs
Anxiety Therapist Shares A Guided Practice: Parts Circle Meditation
Anxiety Therapy Orlando Shares A Guided Meditation: Presence & Intention
Orlando Therapist Shares Box Breathing Technique: A Tool for Anxiety
Other Therapy Services Offered at Mindful Living Counseling in Orlando
We offer a variety of therapy services to address diverse needs! Our options include EMDR therapy, Trauma Therapy, Teen Therapy, Couples Therapy, and toxic relationship therapy. Additionally, we provide guided meditations.
Orlando Therapist Lauran Hahn
Lauran Hahn, LMHC, is an Orlando therapist who focuses on guiding clients through anxiety and trauma. She holds certifications as a Sensorimotor Psychotherapist and EMDR Therapist and is recognized as an EMDRIA Approved Consultant. Lauran aims to help individuals achieve a sense of calm in their bodies, peace in their minds, and stronger connections in their relationships. She also supports clients in recovering from toxic relationships and provides guidance to help prevent such situations in the future.