What are the correct stages of death as commonly recognized?

The commonly recognized stages of death, known as the Kübler-Ross model, consist of Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance, in that specific order. This model outlines a series of emotional responses individuals may experience when faced with terminal illness or loss.

Beginning with denial, individuals often first struggle to accept the reality of their situation. This can manifest as feelings of shock or disbelief. As denial fades, anger frequently emerges as individuals grapple with feelings of helplessness and frustration toward their circumstances or the situation itself. Following anger, individuals may seek to negotiate or bargain, often hoping to reverse or lessen the impending loss. Once the bargaining has been acknowledged, depression can set in as individuals confront the impending reality and experience deep sadness about their situation or loss. Finally, acceptance represents a stage where individuals reconcile with their circumstances, achieving a sense of peace and understanding of their situation as they prepare for finality.

This structured progression is vital for caregivers and professionals to understand, as it informs how support can be offered to those navigating these complex emotions. Recognizing that these stages can vary widely in duration and may not occur in a linear fashion is also crucial.