The experience of grief is a universal one, but it is unique to each individual.
Grief can be caused by a range of situations, including the loss of a loved one, a job, a relationship, or even a pet. Coping with grief involves a process that is often referred to as the “stages of grief.”
These stages were first identified by psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross in her 1969 book “On Death and Dying.”
In today’s blog post, we will focus on the first stage of grief: denial.
What is Denial?
Denial is a natural response to a significant loss.
It is a defense mechanism that helps individuals cope with overwhelming emotions by rejecting the reality of the situation. Denial can take many forms, including disbelief, shock, and numbness.
During this stage, individuals may find it difficult to accept the reality of their loss and may cling to the hope that the situation is not as bad as it seems.
What are the Signs of Denial?
The signs of denial can manifest in various ways, such as refusing to believe that the loss has occurred, minimizing the significance of the event, or avoiding any mention or discussion of it.
People in denial may also try to rationalize the situation or bargain with a higher power to try and reverse the loss. Additionally, they may isolate themselves from others, feeling that no one can understand what they are going through.
These signs of denial are a normal part of the grieving process and should be acknowledged and respected, as individuals work through their emotions in their own time and in their own way.
It’s Temporary
It is important to note that denial is a temporary stage of grief.
While it can be a coping mechanism in the short term, it can become harmful if it prevents individuals from moving through the other stages of grief. Kübler-Ross noted that denial is often followed by other stages, including anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.
If you or someone you know is experiencing denial as a stage of grief, it is important to seek support. This may include talking to a trusted friend or family member, joining a grief support group, or seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor.
The Chicago Mind Solutions Difference
Chicago Mind Solutions works with individuals, offering neuropsychological testing and non-invasive treatment for many mental health conditions. For more information about our treatments and teletherapy options, please contact us at (224) 723-5050 or email info@chicagomindsolutions.com.
