Emotional Stages of Recovery

NAMI is here for you in every stage.

I. Dealing with Catastrophic Events

Stages:

• Crisis/Chaos/Shock
• Denial; “Normalizing”
• Despair; Detachment

Needs:

• Support
• Comfort
• Empathy for current situation
• Help finding resources
• Crisis Management
• Reassurance
• Empathy for pain
• Permission to be numb
• Hope

II. Learning to Cope

Stages:

• Anger/Guilt/Resentment
• Recognition
• Grief

Needs:

• To permit and vent feelings
• Education
• Self-care
• Networking
• Skill training
• To let go
• To learn the system
• Hope

III. Moving into Advocacy

Stages:

• Understanding
• Acceptance
• Advocacy/Action

Needs:

• To restore balance in life
• Responsiveness from the system
• To find meaning
• A sense of empowerment
• Activism
• Hope