The Seven Stages of Grief

When you lose the love of your life 

The seven‑stage model of grief expands on the original five-stage Kübler‑Ross framework to capture more nuance in how people process loss. These stages don’t occur in a fixed order, and people may move back and forth between them or skip some entirely.

1. Shock & Disbelief

The immediate reaction to loss. Everything feels surreal or numb, as if the mind is protecting you from the full impact.

2. Denial

A refusal—conscious or unconscious—to accept the reality of the loss. This can sound like “This can’t be happening” or “This can't be true.”

3. Anger

As the shock fades, intense emotion surfaces. Anger may be directed at yourself, others, the situation, or even the person who is gone.

4. Bargaining

A mental negotiation phase. People often replay “what if” scenarios or imagine deals that could undo the loss.

5. Depression

Deep sadness, withdrawal, or emotional heaviness. This stage reflects the mind beginning to fully grasp the permanence of the loss.

6. Testing

A quieter, more practical phase where you begin experimenting with ways to move forward—small steps, new routines, or tentative coping strategies.

7. Acceptance

Not about being “okay” with the loss, but about acknowledging reality and learning to live with it. Acceptance often comes in waves rather than a single moment.

Author Erika M Szabo

Erika M Szabo is known for her diverse range of writings, which span historical fantasy, magical realism, cozy mysteries, sweet romance, and children's literature. Her writing style is both expressive and insightful, transporting readers into the depths of the characters' emotions.
Born in a small town in Hungary, Erika grew up with a deep love for literature and storytelling. Always seen with a book in her hand from a young age and soon began creating her own intricate worlds and characters. Her gift for storytelling is evident to all those who know and have encouraged her to pursue her passion.
As she grew older, Erika's thirst for adventure and new experiences led her to travel the world. She lived in various countries, soaking up their cultures and traditions, and absorbing them into her writing. Her travels also allowed her to meet a diverse array of people, whose stories and perspectives she wove into her novels.
Despite her literary success and acclaim, Erika remains a humble and down-to-earth person. She often speaks of her belief in the power of words to connect and heal, and her writing reflects this deep empathy and understanding of human experience.
After having negative experiences with publishers, she started her own company to help authors with book formatting, cover design, and navigating the complexities of the publishing industry http://www.goldenboxbooks.com

Erika is also the founder of #OurAuthorGang, a group of writers blogging together. This diverse group showcases the power of collaboration and the potential it has to elevate individuals and create something truly special such as the What If? Anthology Series
Some of her notable works include: "Protected by the Falcon": The first book in "The Ancestors' Secrets" series. This urban fantasy/magical realism novel introduces readers to a world of clan mysteries and ancient traditions.
The "Unbroken Curse": A historical fantasy that explores an ancient curse cast by a powerful witch sixteen hundred years ago, affecting families across generations.

“The Seven Cozy Shorts” includes seven novellas ranging from paranormal fantasy and unconventional relationships to futuristic love stories.

Some of Erika’s books are also published in Spanish, Hungarian, and German, as well as in audiobooks.
In addition to her novels, Erika has authored several children's books that emphasize moral values, acceptance, and friendship. Titles such as "Pico the Pesky Parrot" and "Look, I Can Talk With My Fingers" aim to educate and inspire young readers.
Erika's complex career reflects her passion for storytelling, art, and supporting fellow authors in bringing their creative visions to life.