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| Guide to Recovering from PTSD Contents Introduction information copyright |
What is Denial? Denial is refusal to acknowledge the truth about something. Denial is a defense mechanism used to protect against anxiety or emotional pain. You may be using denial unconsciously to avoid dealing with painful memories. Denial is a coping skill to protect you from stress, but it can backfire and make you feel worse. Veterans may try to convince themselves that everything is fine and they do not need help! The truth may be their lives are in chaos and they are having a difficult time functioning. Often veterans have difficulty accepting reality because it may imply vulnerability. Their memories are shared and loyalties are dep. They may feel out of control and terrified. Sometimes denial is reality. This is when a family member may need to call the Vet Center for help. Support and encouragement are needed for the veteran and family.
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What can I do to avoid using denial as a defense mechanism? Learning to discuss your feelings and emotions takes time for most people. Having experienced combat or traumatic service-related experiences makes it more difficult to express yourself. You will need to learn to problem –solve to lessen feelings of anxiety that y can lead to using denial to defend yourself. Building trust takes time. It can be hard to ask for help. Getting to the Vet Center is a good first step for you and your family. Considering the possible negative outcome of not seeking help with the issues that are causing you to live in denial is a key to recovery. You will learn to identify fears , unrealistic threats, grief and loss issues and anxiety provoking triggers to denial. As you gain insight and learn to problem-solve effectively your self-esteem will grow. You will no longer need the defense mechanism of denial. You will live in reality and truth. You will more easily face life realistically when you can think positively. Once you have used these newly learned coping skills and have experienced the positive outcome, you will have renewed confidence. Denial can magnify an existing problem. it is essential to develop the skills necessary to face life’s situations openly, honestly, and realistically. you can learn to master your life in the moment, one day at a time without the need to deny anything. When you know that you are supported by someone who understands, anything is possible.
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