Denial as a Defense Mechanism

Oh, gosh!  I’m ready to throw up my hands in surrender.

I know that denial is a useful coping mechanism for the short term.  Denial gives us the time we need to adjust to distressing situations.

Basically, we refuse to acknowledge that an event has occurred.  We simply act as if nothing has happened — behaving in ways that others may find bizarre.  

We’re being unrealistic about something that’s happening — something that might be obvious to those around us.  

These people can’t understand why we don’t see reality the same way they do — and we’re just as mystified by their behavior.

And — as I said —  in some cases, a little denial can be a good thing. It may give us the time we need to deal with some sort of change in our life.  As our mind absorbs things, we can approach things more rationally and take action by seeking help.

Still, denial has a dark side. Being in denial for too long can prevent us from effectively dealing with issues that require action — such as a health crisis or a financial situation. 

It’s in this way the denial becomes a barrier or roadblock. 

This is where we are with my mother.  Currently, she’s in denial about her health situation.  Although she'll need more help than in the past, she’s doing great; she’s progressing nicely with therapy; she’s getting stronger every day.

Yet, she closes her eyes to all of this and only sees what she no longer can do.

And I’m ready to throw up my hands in surrender.

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