What does denial refer to in psychological terms?

Denial in psychological terms refers to the complete rejection of the feeling or situation. This defense mechanism involves refusing to acknowledge the reality of a distressing event or emotional state, effectively shielding the individual from the immediate consequences of confronting painful truths. In denial, a person may dismiss or minimize the significance of a problematic situation, such as a serious health issue or the loss of a loved one, leading to a lack of coping or adaptive responses. It acts as a mental buffer, allowing individuals to cope temporarily until they are ready to face the underlying issues. Understanding denial is significant in psychological contexts, especially in therapy, where recognizing and addressing this defense mechanism is essential for effective emotional processing and healing.