5 Stages of Grief After a Stroke
My presentation will cover the 5 stages of grief and how it applies after a stroke.
Overview
We will begin by discussing what grief is and how it applies to a stroke, then we will work through the 5 stages of grief and end with some tips to manage grief and things that stroke survivors can do now for their grief.
What is Grief?
Grief can be defined as coping with a loss. This can be loss of a loved one, a career, or a goal. Grief is accompanied by many symptoms both emotional and physical. Grief impacts every person in unique ways.
Grief After a Stroke
A stroke causes a different kind of loss. The loss of movement, typical thought processes, and talking can be abilities that stroke survivors grieve. People can grieve their old body and the way it used to function.
5 Stages of Grief
The five stages of grief have been a resource adapted to different scenarios. It is important to note that these are not meant to be linear, fluid stages. Individuals will move through these stages at different speeds, and out of order. Each path someone takes through grief is the correct one for them
Denial
Denial is often the first stage. Stroke survivors often experience disbelief that their stroke happened. It involves feelings of utter disbelief that this body is their new reality after a stroke.
Anger
This stage of anger involves intense feelings of frustration. This can be towards their new body’s abilities, caretakers, medical providers, and insurance companies. Tasks that once took little effort might require much more now, and this can cause big feelings of anger.
Bargaining
Bargaining is the stage where individuals may begin to discuss things with a higher power. They think something could have been done in the past to change their outcome. This can be an important stage where motivation emerges from inspiration of action.
Depression
Depression is a stage that one-third of stroke survivors experience. It is a very low period with extreme feelings of sadness and hopelessness. Acknowledge your feelings, and then keep working towards improvement. Find support groups or therapy. Don’t let depression be the end of your journey.
Acceptance
The final stage involves accepting the current situation and adjusting to a new normal. Stroke survivors may have found some comfortability with their new abilities and routines. Progress is evident here in both physical and emotional aspects.
Tips for Management
It is important to understand your feelings! Continue working through these emotions with
- Psychotherapy
- Hobbies
- Journaling
- Rehab
- Daily movement
- Fresh air
- Exploring your emotions
What now?
At this moment, give yourself grace, and acknowledge how far you have already come. Know that every feeling is valid and it is a part of your journey. Feelings make us human. Grief is extremely complex and it takes time to understand how it affects each person. Find what works for you.
Thank you!
Thank you for taking the time to learn from this presentation. Have a great rest of your day, and be kind to yourself!
