The complexity of social reactions and defense mechanisms has occupied psychologists and sociologists for years. People often struggle to cope with reality, especially when it poses a threat to them. Denial, as a defense mechanism, is a common phenomenon that individuals employ in various situations to avoid stress or anxiety. During public health crises, such as pandemics, this phenomenon becomes particularly pronounced, as accepting reality can often be painful for individuals. Denial can take various forms, whether it involves rejecting real events or minimizing a situation. People tend to ignore scientific facts when they contradict their worldview or identity. Social media and politics further amplify this phenomenon, as the confusion…