Loss and Grief

It's another dark day in a long string of 'em, folks. I offer some guidance as we (well, half of us, anyway) wrestle with Loss and Grief

SHOCK / DENIAL

Do you feel a sense of isolation, numbness, disbelief, restlessness, and/or confusion? Welcome to "Shock and Denial," a state in which you may find it difficult to think or concentrate. You mind may feel hazy, and daily tasks may seem insurmountable. Turn off CNN and switch over to the Cartoon Network for a while.

BARGAINING

As you move into stage two, you may feel persecuted. You may feel the need to count every vote. You may find yourself pleading consciously or unconsciously, with a higher authority. Don't bother with the Supreme Court, however, because they're not really working for you right now.

ANGER

Feelings of injustice and bitterness often create anger, which can be a motivating force. Physical exertions such as yoga, martial arts and body-slamming the nearest guilty party are common methods for dealing with anger. Personally, I recommend you use this time to join the ACLU.

DEPRESSION

As anger and denial dissipate, depression inevitably follows. Feelings of hopelessness may wax and wane. Even after you believe you have moved to a stage of acceptance, you may still have times when sadness returns. This is normal. To move away from depression, you must regain a sense of identity and develop methods of coping. Try cup of hot chocolate, a bubble bath, and a fresh carton of insults to throw during the inauguration.

ACCEPTANCE

Feelings of resignation return to the everyday routine punctuated by occasional bouts of depression, anger and dark humor.