Denial and Isolation

The first reaction is denial. In this stage individuals believe the diagnosis is somehow mistaken, and cling to a false, preferable reality.

Examples of Denial Stage

Children grieving in divorce

• Children feel the need to believe that their parents will get back together, or will change their mind about the divorce. Example: "Mom and Dad will stay together."

Grieving a lost serious relationship

• The person left behind is unable to admit that the relationship is over. He or she may continue to seek the former partner's attention.

Grieving in substance abuse

• People feel that they do not have a problem concerning alcohol or other substances. Even if they do feel as if they might have a small problem they believe that they have complete control over the situation and can stop drinking or doing drugs whenever they want. Example: "I don't have to drink all of the time. I can stop whenever I want."

The 5 stages of grief and loss are:

1. Denial and isolation;
2. Anger;
3. Bargaining;
4. Depression;
5. Acceptance.