What stage comes immediately after 'anger' in the grief process?

The stage that comes immediately after 'anger' in the grief process is bargaining. This stage often involves an attempt to negotiate or find a way to regain control in an overwhelming situation. Individuals may find themselves making deals with a higher power or seeking ways to reduce their emotional pain, such as thinking that if they change their behavior, things might improve or that their loss might be alleviated.

Bargaining can be characterized by thoughts like, "If only I could have done something differently," or "I’ll do anything if I can just have one more chance." It reflects a desire to avoid the harsh realities of grief and a way of coping with the loss by trying to find a way to counteract the pain or regain something that has been lost. Recognizing this stage helps people understand the complexities of their grief and the different emotions that accompany it.