A female client's husband, in whom a chronic illness was recently diagnosed, is hospitalized. She states that she cannot stop worrying about what is going to happen with her husband's treatment and how they are going to pay the bills because he will not be working. What reaction is the client most likely experiencing?

D. Denial is a defense mechanism where individuals refuse to acknowledge or accept a painful or distressing reality. In this case, despite objective medical evidence (biopsy results and MRI findings), the client persists in believing that the diagnosis of terminal cancer is incorrect. This refusal to accept the reality of the situation is characteristic of denial.

A. Anger typically involves feelings of frustration, resentment, or hostility towards others or the situation. While anger can be a reaction to receiving a terminal diagnosis, it is not reflective of refusing to accept the diagnosis itself.

B. Anxiety involves feelings of worry, fear, or unease about future events or uncertainties. While anxiety can accompany a terminal diagnosis, it does not manifest as outright refusal or disbelief in the diagnosis itself.

C. Withdrawal refers to a retreat or disengagement from social interactions or activities. It can be a coping mechanism in response to stress or difficult emotions. However, withdrawal does not specifically relate to refusing to accept a diagnosis like terminal cancer.

A. Denial is a common initial reaction where individuals refuse to accept the reality of their illness. They may minimize symptoms, avoid medical advice, or believe that the diagnosis is incorrect. Denial can serve as a defense mechanism to protect individuals from the shock and emotional distress of a diagnosis.

B. Anger is another stage where individuals may experience frustration, resentment, or hostility towards themselves, others, or the situation. They might feel angry about their diagnosis, the impact it has on their life, or towards healthcare providers and caregivers.

C. Grief is a natural response to loss and can be experienced when individuals face the changes, limitations, or potential outcomes associated with their illness. Grief involves feelings of sadness, despair, and mourning for the life they had before the illness, as well as for potential losses in the future. However, it is not a typical stage of the illness experience.

D. Dependency refers to a stage where individuals may rely on others for physical, emotional, or practical support due to the challenges posed by their illness. This stage can involve seeking assistance with daily activities, relying on healthcare providers for treatment, or leaning on family and friends for emotional support. However, it is not a typical stage of the illness experience.