“Denial is a powerful, usually unconscious defense mechanism that shields individuals from uncomfortable or distressing realities. By repressing objective facts or experiences— especially those that provoke fear or anxiety— people can maintain a sense of stability…”🧵/1 
“Historically, denial was vital to daily life. With little protection against illnesses like smallpox, tuberculosis or plague, people would have been immobilized by fear if not for the ability to repress reality.”/2
“When individual denial scales up to the collective level, it fuels…inaction & worsens public health crises. Throughout modern medical history, Americans have repeatedly underestimated or dismissed emerging health threats until…consequences became impossible to ignore.” /3
“With viral threats increasing & chronic diseases on the rise, now is the time for public health leaders & elected officials to change tactics. Americans want & DESERVE the FACTS: what scientists know, what remains unclear & the best estimates of actual risk.” 💯 /4
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