Feeling better when not admitting to what you have done or how you feel can be attributed to several psychological mechanisms. Here are a few possible explanations:
Avoidance of Consequences: Admitting to your actions or emotions may lead to negative consequences, such as guilt, shame, or judgment from others. By not admitting to it, you might avoid facing these uncomfortable emotions or potential repercussions, at least in the short term.
Defense Mechanism - Denial: Denial is a defense mechanism that helps people protect themselves from facing uncomfortable or distressing truths. It involves refusing to acknowledge the reality of a situation to avoid the associated emotional pain.
Fear of Rejection or Abandonment: Admitting certain actions or emotions might make you feel vulnerable and expose you to the risk of rejection or abandonment by others. This fear can lead you to keep things to yourself.
Preserving Self-Image: We often want to maintain a positive self-image, and admitting to mistakes or uncomfortable feelings might challenge that self-image. By avoiding admission, you might be protecting your self-esteem and self-worth.
Coping Mechanism: Keeping things to yourself can serve as a temporary coping mechanism to avoid immediate distress. It can provide a sense of control, as you decide when and how to confront these issues.
Difficulty Expressing Emotions: Some individuals find it challenging to express their emotions openly. This might be due to past experiences, societal norms, or fear of vulnerability.
It's important to recognize that while avoiding these admissions may provide temporary relief, it can also lead to long-term emotional and psychological consequences. Bottling up emotions or avoiding accountability can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and difficulty in forming healthy relationships.
If you find that you consistently struggle to admit to your actions or emotions, it may be helpful to explore these feelings with a therapist or counselor. They can provide a safe space for you to process your emotions, understand the underlying reasons for this avoidance, and develop healthier coping strategies for addressing difficult emotions and situations. Remember, being honest with yourself and others is an essential aspect of personal growth and fostering meaningful connections with others.