The Ego and the Mechanisms of Defence

The ego is the part of our mind that helps us manage reality, balancing our desires, morals, and fears. Defense mechanisms are unconscious strategies the ego uses to protect us from feelings of anxiety or conflict. For example, denial might cause someone to ignore a problem, while projection involves attributing our feelings to others. These defenses help us cope with challenging emotions but can become problematic if overused. Understanding them can promote self-awareness and healthier ways of handling stress and emotional difficulty.