More from coping.org (gotta love that site):

What is denial?

Being unwilling to face problems on either a conscious or subconscious level.

Acting as if there are no problems to face.

A defensive response; protection from pain, hurt, or suffering

A mask to hide feelings or emotions behind.

A way to avoid conflict, disagreements, or disapproval from others.

A way to avoid facing the negative consequences of reality.

A way of retaining our sanity when experiencing unbearable pain.

A way to repress the truth of our loss, a way to continue to function in a ``normally.''

A pattern of life for individuals who are compulsively driven to ``look good.''

A way to avoid the risk of change as a result of problems or loss.

... doesn't sound like the same thing as "detachment" to me.