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Denial in addiction is a psychological defense mechanism that prevents individuals from acknowledging the reality of their substance use and its negative consequences. Addicts have no understanding of their denial; the addict is only thinking of themselves and the protection of themselves.
Denial is a psychological mechanism in which addicts ignore their addiction and its consequences, shielding themselves from uncomfortable truths. It develops gradually and takes various forms. People with loved ones who use substances may find that these individuals often minimize their situation. Common behaviors include rationalization (offering seemingly logical reasons and blaming external factors), blame-shifting (placing responsibility on others or circumstances), and intellectualization (using intellectual arguments to avoid emotional issues).
Denial typically begins with unawareness, where the individual does not recognize or accept that they have a problem with substance use. Although denial starts with the first lie, a lie which may seem innocent at the time, “after all, it was only two beers, everybody is doing it.” As the individual increases their use, they may notice negative effects in their life, but still believe they can manage life on their terms.
They may experiment with cutting back or taking “breaks,” but these efforts are usually short-lived. Eventually, they may admit that a problem exists but continue to justify substance use or avoid change, leading to advanced stages of denial. This stage marks a turning point where the individual deep down knows they are struggling with substance use and can no longer manage day-to-day living without using it daily, mostly alone.
Denial is a barrier that distorts reality. It keeps addicts from accepting the severity of their substance abuse problem. Denial is also a response to internal conflict, blocking the awareness of the emotional pain and negative consequences of their use. It is a protective barrier that guards addicts from overwhelming anxiety, fear and negative emotions.
Denial in addiction becomes a prison. Think of denial as a brick wall keeping you locked in. Those suffering from addiction do not recognize that they hide behind a wall they themselves built brick by brick, lie by lie, to give themselves a feeling of security.
The same wall keeps the addict from recovery. Denial distorts reality and worsens health outcomes. It also prevents individuals from having relationships with loved ones and creates a cycle of enabling behaviors that further entrench the addiction. This defense helps them maintain a sense of control and self-esteem.
Yes, denial can lead to death by delaying treatment and worsening health issues. It is essential for individuals to be open and honest about their substance use to understand the impact on their lives and to actively engage in changing their unhealthy behaviors.
12-step programs address denial by encouraging individuals to admit their powerlessness over addiction and recognize that their lives have become unmanageable. This admission is a critical step in the recovery process and is a significant hurdle in the journey towards a meaningful, happy life.
For the AA help line in Cherokee County, call AA Mountain Intergroup at 828-837-4440.
Dr. Herb Clark of Murphy is an expert in the field of addiction with 33 years of experience. He served on the N.C. Professional Practice board, adjunct professor for two universities and was a U.S. Marine serving 25 years, through two wars and three conflicts traveling the world, seeing the effects of addiction firsthand worldwide. Send questions or comments to him at hypno321@hotmail.com.