Which phase of adaptation follows denial in the recovery process?

In the recovery process, the phase that follows denial is characterized by anxiety. This stage often emerges as individuals begin to confront the reality of their situation after initially rejecting it during the denial phase. The realization of the challenges ahead can lead to feelings of worry, unease, and heightened emotional responses.

During the anxiety phase, individuals may experience uncertainty about their future, fear of the unknown, and concern over personal capability to cope with the changes or challenges presented by their circumstances. This is a crucial phase, as it can motivate individuals to seek support, gather information, and begin to explore ways to address their situations actively.

In contrast, shock can be an immediate response to trauma or loss but does not typically follow denial in a structured recovery process. Depression often occurs later as individuals may process feelings of sadness or helplessness after experiencing anxiety. Acknowledgment reflects a more advanced stage where individuals accept their situation and begin to adapt actively, which comes after navigating through anxiety and any subsequent emotions. Thus, anxiety clearly aligns as the logical step that follows denial in the recovery trajectory.