Back to Temporal States

Grief Integration

4 stepscyclical pattern

The non-linear process of integrating loss into one's life over time.

Emotional Sequence

1

acute grief

triggeringescalating
Days to weeks
Transitions to:
grief wavenumbness
Triggered by:
Loss occurrenceReality setting in
2

grief wave

processingcycling
Months to years
Transitions to:
meaning makingcontinued bond
Triggered by:
TimeSupportProcessing
3

meaning making

resolvingtransforming
Ongoing
Transitions to:
integration
Triggered by:
Narrative developmentPurpose finding
4

continued bond

resolvedresolving
Lifelong

Common Triggers for This Journey

lossanniversary reaction

Journey Resolution

Living with loss while maintaining connection and meaning

Real-World Examples

Death of loved one processing

Relationship ending grief

Loss of health or ability