Dual Process Model of Grief
We've all heard about the famous "5 Stages of Grief" model by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, which has been a cornerstone in understanding how people cope with loss; the Dual Process Model of Grief offers a more nuanced and realistic perspective on the grieving process.
Grief is an intricate and deeply personal experience, and the Dual Process Model acknowledges this complexity. It suggests we don't linearly move through grief, as the five stages model implies. Instead, we oscillate between two essential processes: loss-oriented and restoration-oriented.
The Dual Process Model of Grief:
🌦 Loss-Oriented Process 🌦
In this phase, we confront our emotions head-on. We allow ourselves to grieve, to feel the pain and sadness that loss brings. It's a crucial part of healing, as it lets us process our feelings and come to terms with the reality of the loss.
🌱 Restoration-Oriented Process 🌱
But here's where the Dual Process Model shines: it recognizes that we also need moments of respite from the grief. We engage in activities that restore us, bring us joy and help us regain our strength. Whether it's pursuing a hobby, spending time with loved ones, or simply walking in nature, these activities are essential for our overall well-being.
At some point in our lives, we will experience some form of grief, and it may feel more complex than neatly transitioning through five stages.
The message I want to share to anyone navigating the challenging terrain of loss: Grieving isn't one-size-fits-all; it's a deeply personal journey that varies from person to person. More often than not (with the proper support), humans can undergo profound growth and transformation through the crucible of pain.
Here is to embracing the duality of grief and our human experiences!
I will leave you with a quote by one of my favourite authors that was etched into my heart: "Hardship often prepares an ordinary person for an extraordinary destiny."
By Joan Chia