Alcoholic in Denial: Identifying Hidden Struggles and Supporting Recovery
Denial- it is powerful, dangerous, and one of the psychological symptoms of being alcoholic. For those who have not experienced true denial, they may think that it is simply “denying” that a problem exists. However, denial runs much deeper than that in the psyche of an alcoholic. It is the true belief that he or she is not alcoholic when all evidence points to otherwise.
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In my own personal experience, after hitting an emotional bottom there was 90% of my rational self that recognized I was alcoholic and 10% that did not. Only 10% was my denial, yet it had more influence over my thinking than the 90%. Today, when those denial thoughts crop up, I use them as reminders that even though I have always been high functioning, I really am an alcoholic. Societal and cultural factors can also play a role in an alcoholic’s denial. The stigma and judgment surrounding addiction create an environment where individuals may feel discouraged from seeking help or admitting to their problem.
- It’s like putting on a pair of rose-colored glasses and refusing to see the negative consequences that arise from excessive alcohol consumption.
- Often, when confronted about their drinking habits, individuals in denial may brush off the concerns or downplay them as insignificant.
- You may also want to see if other family members and friends want to be involved.
- People must first realize and accept that they have a drinking problem in order to get over this obstacle.
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Many people today do not view addiction as a disease, which it is. This stigma creates shame, guilt and fear in individuals who are addicted to alcohol. As a result, many people hide foaming at the mouth drugs their disease from the public. Find support for yourself and other family members in a rehab family program.
These conversations can be tricky and emotional, so you may want to involve a therapist or counselor. Sometimes denial can be helpful for a little while when dealing with a stressful or traumatic situation. But staying in denial is harmful because it prevents you from seeking help or addressing a situation. People who overuse alcohol and drugs tend to have a hard time dealing with their emotions.
Ignoring or denying the difficult and painful consequences of alcohol addiction will only make things worse. In fact, by the time families reach out for help with a loved one’s alcoholism, the disease may have progressed to a crisis level involving an accident, lost job, arrest or medical emergency. The short-term effects of alcohol abuse can make people prone to violent behavior, injuries and accidents. Part of addressing alcoholic denial is offering easy access to educational resources and programs.
Step 2. Practice what you’re going to say
Individuals in denial may justify their drinking by comparing themselves to others who they believe are worse off or have more severe drinking habits. They use this comparison as a way to downplay their own behavior and convince themselves that they don’t have a problem. We are available to explore addiction treatment options that can help you or your loved one get the assistance needed to start recovery. When a person starts abusing alcohol, they may feel they have a good reason.
Symptoms of Denial
Furthermore, they can recommend suitable treatment options and resources tailored to the individual’s specific needs. Addressing these factors can help to uncover the root causes of denial and pave the way for an individual to recognize their addiction. Encourage open and honest conversations, and remind the person that seeking help for addiction is a courageous and commendable step. By addressing both family and societal influences, we can support and nurture the journey to recovery. Understanding denial is a first step toward helping your loved one with alcohol use disorder.
