Grief is something we all go through at some point, but it’s never easy. When we lose someone we love, it can feel like the world has been turned upside down. Over the years, I’ve learned that understanding grief, even just a little, can help us make sense of what we’re feeling and give us some hope for healing.

Here on Canadian Obituaries, I see so many families sharing stories and memories of their loved ones. It’s a reminder that grief isn’t something we face alone—it’s a journey we take together, even if it feels deeply personal.

What Are the Stages of Grief?

The five stages of grief, introduced by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, are a way to understand the emotions we might experience after a loss. These aren’t steps we follow in order, and not everyone goes through all of them—but they help us see that what we’re feeling is normal.

1. Denial: “This Can’t Be Real”

When loss happens, it can feel like a bad dream. You might find yourself thinking, “This can’t be happening.” Denial is a natural way our mind protects us from the full weight of the loss right away. It gives us a bit of time to adjust to the new reality.

2. Anger: “Why Did This Happen?”

Once the shock wears off, anger can creep in. You might feel angry at yourself, at others, or even at life itself. It’s okay to feel this way—it’s part of trying to make sense of something so unfair.

3. Bargaining: “What If I Had Done More?”

During this stage, it’s common to think about what you could have done differently. Thoughts like, “If only I had been there,” or “What if I had done something else?” are part of the process. It’s your mind’s way of searching for answers, even if there aren’t any clear ones.

4. Depression: “This Feels So Heavy”

Sadness is a natural part of grief. You might feel an emptiness or a sense of hopelessness as the reality of the loss sinks in. This stage can be hard, but it’s important to let yourself feel these emotions—they’re part of healing.

5. Acceptance: “I Can Move Forward While Remembering”

Acceptance doesn’t mean you stop missing the person you’ve lost. It just means you’ve found a way to carry their memory while continuing to live your life. It’s about making peace with the loss and finding ways to honor your loved one as you move forward.

Grief Isn’t a Straight Line

One thing I’ve learned is that grief doesn’t follow a strict timeline. You might skip a stage, go back to one, or feel a mix of emotions all at once. That’s completely normal.

There’s no “right” way to grieve. It’s a personal journey, and the most important thing is to be kind to yourself along the way.

How to Take Care of Yourself While Grieving

If you’re grieving, here are a few things that might help:

• Take it one day at a time. Some days will feel harder than others, but that’s okay.
• Let yourself feel. It’s natural to feel a mix of emotions—sadness, anger, confusion, even relief.
• Talk to someone. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or counselor, sharing how you feel can make a big difference.

If you’re supporting someone who’s grieving, remember that just being there for them is enough. You don’t need to have the perfect words—listening and offering a hug can mean the world.

Honoring Your Loved One

Grief is a reflection of love. Finding ways to honor your loved one can help you feel connected to them even as you move forward.

Some ideas include:

• Sharing their story with others.
• Writing a tribute or posting their obituary on Canadian Obituaries.
• Creating a keepsake, like a photo album or a memory box.
• Planting a tree or lighting a candle in their memory.

These small acts can bring comfort and remind you of the love you’ll always carry.

My Final Thoughts

Grieving is never easy, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. But understanding the stages of grief can help us feel less alone and give us the space to heal in our own time.

If you’re going through loss, know that it’s okay to feel however you feel. Take your time, lean on the people around you, and remember that healing is a process.

Here on Canadian Obituaries, I see so many examples of how families honor their loved ones and find strength in their memories. You’re not alone on this journey—we’re here to help you share your story and keep their legacy alive.