Episode 005 - Is Denial Always A Bad Thing?

What is Denial?

Denial is a type of defense mechanism that involves ignoring the reality of a situation to avoid anxiety. Defense mechanisms are strategies that people use to cope with distressing feelings. In the case of denial, it can involve not acknowledging reality or denying the consequences of that reality.

5 Stages of Grief - Elisabeth Kübler-Ross

1. Denial is NOT always a bad thing (in the short term)
2. Surround yourself with people that can recognize your patterns and issues.
3. Be Intentional - Prioritize your journey of loss and healing

Ways to be intentional...

1. Laugh often
2. Get enough sleep
3. Journaling
   1. Grief to Growth Journal (available at grieftogrowth.org)
4. Don't Grieve Alone!

How to help someone in denial...

***Be Present! "Don't opt for absence because you feel ill-equipped."

Recent Episodes mentioned on this podcast:***

Episode 2 - The Ripple Effect of Grief (Kari's story)

Episode 4 - Grieving in Faith (with John Brockman)