What is the first stage of the Kubler-Ross Model of grief?

In the context of the Kubler-Ross Model of grief, denial is recognized as the first stage individuals often experience when faced with loss. This stage involves a refusal to accept the reality of the situation, allowing individuals to process the overwhelming emotions that accompany grief at their own pace. Denial can serve as a coping mechanism, providing a buffer against the shock of loss. This stage is crucial because it enables individuals to avoid immediate confrontation with their feelings, which can be particularly intense during the initial stages of grief.

The other stages—anger, bargaining, and depression—typically occur after denial. While they are all integral parts of the grieving process, they follow the initial period of denial, where individuals start to confront their feelings about the loss and its implications. Understanding that denial comes first helps in recognizing the natural progression of grief and shows that each person's journey through these stages may vary.