During which stage of grief do individuals often feel a profound sense of sadness and loss?

Individuals often experience a profound sense of sadness and loss during the depression stage of grief. This stage is characterized by deep feelings of sorrow, regret, and mourning as the individual begins to truly process the reality of their loss. It is a period where the weight of the grief becomes most palpable, and those grieving may isolate themselves or find it difficult to engage with their usual activities.

During this stage, individuals might reflect on the impact of their loss and the emotional pain it brings, which can lead to symptoms akin to clinical depression, such as feelings of hopelessness or helplessness. While other stages like anger, denial, and bargaining represent different emotional responses to grief, they do not capture the same depth of sorrow that defines the depression stage. This phase is crucial in the grieving process as it allows individuals to confront and work through their emotions related to the loss.