This. The second sentence is key. I've heard a psychologist describe it as your mind intensely trying to keep you away from the stressor, thus shielding you fro

This. The second sentence is key. I've heard a psychologist describe it as your mind intensely trying to keep you away from the stressor, thus shielding you from it. Of course, sometimes, it's counterproductive or even more painful when this happens, ex: OCD or hypochondria.