Denial is a defense mechanism in which an individual refuses to recognize or acknowledge objective facts or experiences. It’s an unconscious process that serves to protect the person from discomfort or anxiety .
What Is Denial? (Plain Language Explanation)
Denial 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 Denial
- Symptoms: The specific ways denial shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen denial
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When denial occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Denial
- Denial is far more common than most people realize
- Denial is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with denial see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about denial is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing denial, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.