Cognitive Distortions

Mental Rigidity and the Hidden Ego with David Hanscom

New Thinking AllowedAug 19, 2026

Former orthopedic spine surgeon Dr. David Hanscom argues that the ego is a fragile defense mechanism built from childhood programming, survival sensations like anxiety and anger, and competition for status. He explains how this identity hardens into mental rigidity that fuels repetitive unwanted thoughts, judgment, and chronic mental and physical pain, drawing on his own 15-year ordeal with 17 symptoms and a suicide attempt in 2002. His remedy centers on awareness, calming the nervous system into 'safety physiology,' self-compassion, and neuroplasticity, rather than fighting thoughts or relying on talk therapy alone.