Defense mechanisms in mental health

According to science, the behavior of assuring others that everything is fine when one's mental health is not in good shape reflects several defense mechanisms. The question "how are you?" has become so common that it often prevents individuals from delving into the true details of their emotions and mood.

Emotional suppression

Among these mechanisms is emotional suppression, which involves not expressing emotions to avoid worrying others. According to psychology, this attitude also helps maintain control over one's emotions. The study found that individuals who use emotional suppression express fewer emotions, feel more negative emotions, and have weaker psychological well-being.

Minimization of facts and emotions

Another common defense mechanism is the minimization of facts and emotions, which involves telling oneself that what one feels is not so serious or that there is worse. This normalization of certain difficulties can have serious consequences and worsen mental health. A study published in 1996 found that people who use this avoidance strategy tend to want to reduce their psychological discomfort.

Denial as a defense

Denial is another well-known defense mechanism, expressed by completely denying a reality and not wanting to acknowledge one's suffering. While this mechanism can be useful in the short term as it promotes psychological protection, like the minimization of facts, it delays acceptance. According to psychiatrist George Eman Vaillant, author of the book The Defense Mechanisms: A Guide for Clinicians and Researchers, published in 1992, this behavior has its limits since it can prevent lasting improvement.