In the stages of grief, which stage follows bargaining?

In the stages of grief, the stage that follows bargaining is depression. This shift typically occurs after an individual has gone through the bargaining phase, where they might have made deals or promises in an attempt to reverse or lessen the loss they are experiencing. During the depression stage, feelings of deep sadness and despair often emerge as the individual begins to confront the actual reality of their loss. This is a crucial part of the grieving process, as it allows the individual to feel and process their emotions more fully.

While denial, acceptance, and anger are also significant stages in the grieving process, they represent different emotional responses and phases. Denial is about the initial shock and inability to accept the situation, anger is often directed towards oneself, others, or the situation itself, and acceptance refers to the eventual coming to terms with the reality of the loss. Depression serves as a bridge between the struggle of bargaining and the eventual acceptance, making it an essential phase in the journey through grief.