Which stage of grief is characterized by disbelief and numbness?

The stage of grief characterized by disbelief and numbness is denial. This initial stage often serves as a defense mechanism that helps individuals cope with the overwhelming emotions associated with loss. During denial, people may struggle to accept the reality of their loved one's death, leading to feelings of emptiness or shock. This stage acts as a buffer that allows individuals to process their grief at a pace they can handle.

Denial can manifest in various ways, such as refusing to talk about the death, avoiding reminders of the deceased, or even failing to acknowledge the permanence of the loss. It's an essential part of the grieving process because it buys the person time to come to terms with the reality of what has happened. As individuals move through this stage, they may gradually begin to confront their feelings, which helps pave the way for subsequent stages of grief.