Denial and Shock Stage
The denial and shock stage is a common reaction to sudden tragedy or overwhelming stress. It is a normal psychological and emotional response to an event that is difficult to accept or process. This stage can be seen in many traumatic situations such as the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, a serious injury, or a natural disaster. During this stage, an individual may feel numb, confused, and unable to process and comprehend the consequences of the event.
The denial and shock stage is the initial reaction to a traumatic event. During this stage, the individual may be unable to comprehend the magnitude of the event or its consequences. They may also be in a state of disbelief and unable to accept the reality of the situation. This is a normal response to tragedy and is often seen as an adaptive response to the trauma. It allows the individual to temporarily cope with the situation and allows them to process the event at a later time.
The duration of this stage can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the event. Generally, this stage can last anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks. During this time, individuals may experience a wide range of emotions such as confusion, guilt, fear, and anger. They may also engage in behaviors such as avoiding the topic, avoiding people, or engaging in self-destructive behaviors.
It is important to note that denial and shock can be a normal part of the grieving process. It is the body’s way of protecting us from the overwhelming emotional toll of the event. It is important to allow yourself to experience this stage fully, and find healthy ways to cope and move forward.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
Cunningham, L. (2020). Stages of grief: denial and shock. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/stages-of-grief-denial-and-shock-4159793
Lamberg, L. (2017). Denial and shock: Typical reactions to sudden tragedy. American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2017/01/shock