Five Stages of the B K
The first stage is denial 31% Loss
Upon hearing the diagnosis, the patient reacts with a shocked, "No, not me." According to Dr.Kubler-Ross, this is a healthy stage, and permits the patient and the family to develop other defenses.
Next comes anger or resentment 50% Loss
"Why me?" is the question asked now. "Why my child?" Blame, directed against the doctor, nurses and God often is a part of this stage. This outcry should be accepted, unjudged.
The third stage is bargaining 61.5% Loss
"Yes me, but-" "If you'll just give me five years, God, I'll . . ." This Dr. Kubler-Ross calls a period of temporary truce.
The fourth stage is depression 75% Loss
Now the person says, "Yes, me," with the courage to admit that it is happening; this acknowledgment brings depression. (Note: The family often goes through all the stages, along with the patient.)
Finally comes acceptance 90% Loss
A time of facing death calmly. This is often a difficult time for the family, since the patient tends to withdraw, to be silent.
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