Denial is a defense mechanism that is very helpful in terms of reducing our anxiety by removing unpleasant thoughts from our mind. Our subconscious mind stores the truths about ourselves and keeps them from our conscious mind, thinking it is protecting us. To some degree it is. But when denial is used excessively, then it becomes a negative force in your life that leads to self-sabotaging behaviors. So it is important to hold a mirror up to yourself and look at the truth of who you are so that you can make wise decisions going forward that will lead to health, happiness, and sustainable, satisfying relationships.