Alcohol addiction, or Alcohol Use Disorder, is a disease that can cause a lot of harm to the person suffering from it and their loved ones. Denial is a common symptom of alcoholism, and it can be extremely frustrating for those around the person suffering from the addiction. People with Alcohol Use Disorder may be in denial about their addiction in several ways, such as refusing to acknowledge that they have a problem, hiding their drinking habits, or becoming defensive when confronted. They may also try to rationalize their behaviour by making excuses or shifting the blame onto others or external factors. Shame and a lack of education about alcohol addiction can also play a role in a person’s denial. This emotion can lead to negative self-talk, embarrassment, low self-esteem, and destructive thinking, causing people to cover up their drinking as a way to cope with their feelings.

Holistic Therapy

Individuals may feel embarrassed or stigmatized about their drinking habits, especially if they come from families where alcoholism was present. For instance, someone who grew up with a parent dealing with alcohol use disorder might internalize shame when facing their own addiction struggles. If you’re ready to start your recovery journey and take your life back from alcohol addiction, contact a treatment provider today to discuss your treatment options.

Coping with Another’s Alcoholism

The NIAAA Alcohol Treatment Navigator is a great tool that provides more information about alcohol use disorder, how to find treatment, and how to find support. Sometimes, it may be easier for your loved one with alcohol use disorder to avoid talking about it completely. If you think someone you know is in denial about living with alcohol use disorder, there are ways you can help them. Each person has a different experience and insight on their relationship with alcohol. While some may have reached a place of awareness, others may still be trying to understand the seriousness of their condition.

• Along the way, consider involving friends or loved ones in the process for additional support.
• For example, you might expect them to minimise the impact of their drinking on the wider family and work cooperatively with you to reduce these effects.
• Alcohol addiction can be difficult and potentially dangerous to recover from on your own.
• Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through!
• Finally, it’s important for those around the alcoholic to encourage professional help if they are unable or unwilling to seek it out themselves.

Rationalizing Reasons for Drinking

In order to better manage these issues, it is important to understand the need for treatment. Alcoholism is a serious and potentially life-threatening disorder that requires professional treatment. If someone you know is in denial about their alcohol use, it can be difficult to know what to do. It’s important to remember that alcoholism is a disease, not a character defect. Understanding the signs of alcoholism and available intervention options can help you support your loved one in getting the help they need. I have even witnessed many alcoholics steadfastly defending their “right” to live as they please, including to drink as they wish.

People with AUD may have difficulties with insight, working memory, complex thought, and problem solving. Ria Health offers several FDA-approved medications for alcohol use disorder. Excessive drinking has numerous impacts on your body and mind, ranging from mild to severe. You can also visit the NIAAA Rethinking Drinking website or read the NIAAA treatment guide to learn more about alcohol use disorder and to find help for your loved one.

Denial Is Dangerous and Acceptance Is Key

It may be helpful to pay attention to how much alcohol they are drinking and how often they are drinking it. Additionally, look for changes in behavior such as memory problems, mood swings, or unusual exhaustion. To be considered alcoholism, drinking habits need to interfere with physical health, mental health, social wellbeing, or occupational success. There are different types of alcoholics, ranging from functional to severe chronic users. While some why are alcoholics in denial people may function better than others, drinking enough to be considered an alcoholic implies some level of harmful consequences.

Lying Is a Characteristic of Alcoholism

Although drinking has placed the person in a helpless, dependent position, they might continue to believe they’re independent. That’s because well-meaning family, friends, co-workers, employers, clergymen, and https://ecosoberhouse.com/ counselors may have rescued them from their problems. If your loved one is in denial or doesn’t want to seek treatment, they’re not alone. According to the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health,about 14.5 million people have an AUD, and yet only 7% received treatment that year.

Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, Substance abuse and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge. If someone refuses help, continue to offer support and maintain open lines of communication, but respect their autonomy and prepare for a potentially long journey. Keep offering resources and be ready to act when they show willingness to change. Engaging in self-care practices, such as exercise, proper nutrition, and maintaining a healthy sleep schedule, is also essential for managing stress during the recovery process. Maintain open lines of communication even if your initial concerns are rejected.

Shame and stigma can lead to denial about alcohol addiction

This is particularly common if friends or family members are enabling the affected person, as denial can go both ways. Completely refusing to discuss the issue and avoiding the subject entirely is another sign of denial in alcoholism. Denial can be difficult to navigate, as it can prevent them from seeking treatment for their addiction. Offering a solution shows that you aren’t just judging or attacking; you are trying to help.