Denial (Self-Protection)

Denial (Self-Protection) is a psychological defense mechanism where a person unconsciously refuses to accept or acknowledge a painful or distressing reality. This helps to temporarily protect their emotional well-being by avoiding the anxiety or discomfort associated with the truth. For example, someone might deny they have a health problem or downplay an unpleasant situation, even when evidence suggests otherwise. While it offers short-term relief, persistent denial can prevent individuals from dealing with issues effectively and may delay seeking help or resolution.