The 7 stages of loss are a model that describes the common emotions and thoughts that people experience after losing someone or something they love. They are not fixed or linear, but rather fluid and personal.

The 7 stages are:

• Shock and disbelief: This is the initial reaction to the loss, where you may feel numb, stunned, or unable to accept what happened.
• Denial: This is a defence mechanism that helps you cope with the overwhelming pain. You may try to ignore or avoid the reality of the loss.
• Guilt: This is a stage where you may blame yourself or others for the loss. You may feel regret, remorse, or responsibility for what you did or didn’t do.
• Anger and bargaining: This is a stage where you may feel angry, resentful, or frustrated with the situation. You may also try to negotiate or make deals with a higher power or yourself to reverse or change the loss.
• Depression, loneliness and reflection: This is a stage where you may feel sad, hopeless, or isolated. You may also reflect on the meaning and impact of the loss.
• Reconstruction (or ‘working through’): This is a stage where you may start to adjust and adapt to the new reality. You may also begin to find new ways of coping and moving forward.
• Acceptance: This is a stage where you may come to terms with the loss and embrace the changes. You may also feel more at peace and hopeful for the future.

These stages are based on the work of Elizabeth Kübler-Ross, who originally proposed five stages of grief for terminally ill patients. Later, two more stages were added to account for the complexities of grief. However, these stages are not meant to be prescriptive or definitive. Everyone grieves differently and may experience different emotions and thoughts at different times. The important thing is to allow yourself to feel and express your grief, and seek support when you need it. Grief is a natural and normal response to loss, and it can also be a source of healing and growth.