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Did You Know?
 
Points To Consider

When we lose a loved one or need to change our lifestyles due to circumstances that are difficult, we experience these times as stressful. Yet, during such difficult times, many decisions often have to be made. Some points to consider about making decisions under stress are below:

  • The greater the stress, the greater the likelihood of choosing a risky alternative.
  • The greater the stress, the greater the tendency to make a premature choice of alternatives.
  • The greater the stress, the less likely it is that an individuals can tolerate ambiguity.
  • Under increasing stress, there is a decrease in productive thoughts and an increase in distracting thoughts.
  • The greater the stress, the greater the perception of threat - poor judgment often results.
  • In a stressful situation often only immediate survival goals are considered which means that longer range considerations are frequently ignored.

Grief, loss, and unwanted change can all result in a series of stages of adjustment to the new reality. The decision-making process can be greatly affected by our emotional responses to loss, grief, and change. Elizabeth Kubler Ross’ model of grief stages are presented below with some comments about the impact of each stage on decision making.

Stage 1: Shock and denial. It is common for people to avoid making decisions or taking action at this point, it is almost impossible to think rationally at this time.

Stage 2: Anger. Making decisions at this point is difficult because all one's energy gets put into the emotion rather than problem solving. Talk with family, friends or a counseling professional to understand and manager the anger and to avoid making decisions based on this strong emotion.

Stage 3: Depression and detachment. At this stage, thinking is difficult and energy levels may be low. Consider asking a family member, friend, or professional for help if important decisions need to be made.

Stage 4: Dialogue and bargaining. At this stage, people become more willing to explore alternatives after expressing their feelings. Talking over plans and possibilities with friends or family can help sort out the choices and lead to effective decision making.

Stage 5: Acceptance. At this stage people find new purpose and meaning as they begin to accept loss and change. Decision making is easier as our thinking processes are easily used. Making a plan based on sound rational judgment that also takes into consideration how you feel about a decision is important. Friends, families and professionals may be appropriate ‘sounding boards’ for plans before final decisions are made.

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