- Denial and Isolation: Periods of denial are used positively as a healthy way to cope with the shock of finding out the truth.
- Anger: Ask “why me?”, He/she feels resentful and envious, frustration and helpless. They are angry with family, doctors, nurses, friends and others and need to feel cared for and respected.
- Bargaining: The person wants more time with which to be cured or to finish undone work. This stage is looked upon as a positive stage where the person is not giving up, rather fighting for what life is left.
- Depression and withdrawal. A great sense of loss either from past losses, disappointments and guilt or from future losses from family and material goods. Often the depression is not openly expressed, but should be allowed to proceed. Cheering up and supporting the person is very helpful during this stage. This is a necessary and beneficial stage.
- Acceptance. Finally, they contemplate the death with a certain degree of quiet expectation. There is a transition time for the dying to accept death and the family and friends to begin transition towards growth and life after by Elizabeth Kubler-Ross
Post some of the experiences you have had in the various stages outlined above.