People become more willing to explore alternatives after expressing their feelings. Stage 5 - Acceptance . Decisions are much easier to make because people have found new purpose and meaning. Change can create stress, and this stress can take its toll on many aspects of life, such as health, personal safety, and relationships. Unrelieved stress is a known risk factor in many leading causes of premature death among adults, like heart disease, hypertension, stroke, and immune system disruptions.
Stress is also a risk factor for depression and suicide.
When symptoms of depression persist or cause disruption in a person's life, getting professional help is extremely important. If you experience any of these for longer than two weeks, if you feel suicidal, or if the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with your daily life, see you family doctor or other health care professional. Sources Sharon Danes, Family Social Science Department, College of Human Ecology, University of Minnesota.