Anger, the most intense grief reaction, arises when people realize that death and loss will actually occur. Anger may be directed at healthcare providers, family members, patients, God, or the world in general. Family members may be angry with the dying person for leaving them. They may also feel guilty for still having a life or for not having done or said all the things that they might have wished. Bargaining happens when family members attempt to stall or to manipulate the outcome, death.
Depression is a response to loss that is expressed as profound sadness or deep suffering.
Acceptance is the ability to overcome grief and accept what's left. In this stage, family members come to terms with the patient's end of life. Often they may gather for a final farewell at the bedside. Generally, families who are able to talk through feelings of grief can come through death of a loved one intact. Nothing is harder on families than death.