Which phase follows the denial phase in the process of coping with trauma?

In the context of coping with trauma, the phase that follows denial is typically the anger phase. After initial denial, individuals often experience feelings of frustration, anxiety, and anger as they begin to acknowledge the reality of their situation. This phase can manifest in various ways, including irritability, frustration with others, and a general sense of injustice about the circumstances they are facing.

Understanding this progression is important because it illustrates the complex emotional responses that individuals may have as they process traumatic experiences. The anger phase is a critical step that signifies that a person is moving towards confronting their feelings and the reality of the trauma. It serves as a transitional phase that can pave the way for subsequent stages of coping, where individuals start to seek ways to make sense of their experiences and may ultimately reach acceptance.