Defense mechanisms are unconscious strategies whereby people protect themselves from anxious thoughts or feelings.
What Is Defense Mechanisms? (Plain Language Explanation)
Defense Mechanisms refers to a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that many people experience. While it can be challenging, it's also well-understood and treatable.
Key Terms to Know About Defense Mechanisms
- Symptoms: The specific ways defense mechanisms shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen defense mechanisms
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When defense mechanisms occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Defense Mechanisms
- Defense Mechanisms is far more common than most people realize
- Defense Mechanisms is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with defense mechanisms see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about defense mechanisms is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing defense mechanisms, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.