What is the first emotion typically experienced during a traumatic situation?

In a traumatic situation, denial is often the first emotion experienced because it serves as a psychological defense mechanism. When faced with shocking or distressing news or events, individuals might initially find it hard to accept the reality of the situation. Denial can manifest as disbelief or numbness, helping to temporarily shield the individual from the overwhelming emotions that may come later.

This emotional response allows individuals to process the trauma at their own pace, as accepting the reality of the situation can be incredibly challenging. Denial can create a buffer, providing space for a person to gradually confront the facts of the event and begin to process their feelings in a more manageable way. Understanding this initial reaction can aid in offering support to those experiencing trauma, as recognizing denial allows for empathetic engagement and appropriate interventions.