For millions of people who have recovered from alcohol use disorder (AUD), it can feel like waking up from a long, painful nightmare into a life they never imagined possible. Recovery brings clarity, hope, and a renewed sense of purpose. Yet, for many still struggling with alcoholism denial, this reality can feel completely out of reach.
Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder
Millions of people struggle with AUD every day. AUD is one of the most common and deadly diseases in the world. Many people are surprised to hear that AUD is a disease, but most recovery specialists and medical professionals agree. Addiction (like AUD) is now believed to be more like other chronic diseases, like cancer and diabetes. This is because, without some type of professional intervention, AUD will almost always get worse, never better.
According to the peer-reviewed journal, Alcohol Use Disorder: Screening, Evaluation, and Management, by Doctors Nehring, Chen, and Freeman, “AUD is a chronic disease with significant medical, social, and psychological implications for the patient. AUD also significantly impacts the healthcare system, contributing to over 200,000 hospitalizations annually and 7.4% of emergency room visits. About 29.5 million people 12 and over have AUD in the United States; however, only 7.6% of this population receive treatment.” Many of these people who don’t get the help that they need are in alcoholism denial.
Do I Have a Problem With Alcohol?
Many people ask, “Do I have a problem with alcohol?” The answer for many of these people is, if you are asking the question, then you may have a problem. If you feel like you are experiencing any consequences from your drinking, then you may have a problem with alcohol.
While consequences are always going to vary based on the individual, some universal consequences are often felt across the board. The following are just a few of those consequences:
- Losing contact with loved ones due to isolation
- Having regular hangovers that also increase in severity
- Losing interest in activities once enjoyed
- Spending excessive amounts of money on alcohol or going out and drinking alcohol
- Ending up in the hospital due to drinking
- Experiencing trouble with relationships
- Issues arising at work or school
- Feeling overly anxious or depressed
- Getting into legal trouble
If any of these issues are happening due to your drinking, then you may have a problem with alcohol. Many people also experience these problems due to their drinking, but do not get the help they need. This is often due to their alcoholism denial.
What Is Alcoholism Denial?
Alcoholism denial is when an individual does not believe that they have a problem, even when they start to experience consequences. It is also much more common than many people may think.
According to the peer-reviewed journal, Drug and Alcohol Dependence, “The denial or minimization of substance-related problems interferes with decisions to seek help, impedes behavior changes, and contributes to relapses into problematic behaviors. About 30% to >50% of individuals with AUDs or other SUDs evidence of denial. False negative reports of a general substance-related problem can include statements that the person did not take the substance when he or she had been using, admissions of use but denial of high levels of consumption or associated problems that occurred, or a person admitting to substance related difficulties but denying an overarching problem with the substance.” It can also be very difficult to convince someone that they need help.
Moving Forward After Alcoholism Denial
Getting a loved one to help when they are in alcoholism denial takes tenacity and patience. This is why reaching out to a reputable recovery center can be so beneficial. Reaching out to a professional interventionist who understands alcoholism denial can also be vital for success in getting a loved one help.
The reality is that honesty is a cornerstone of recovery. Yet, how can one get honest if they are in denial? The key is to take advantage of any window of realization that opens up. If you are reading this because you are curious about your drinking, then maybe you are ready to do more research and move forward. What’s the harm? You may find that you don’t have a problem, but if you find that you have a problem, then you can start to do something about it right away. You can avoid the nightmare and start living the life that you deserve and desire.
Long-Term Success With The Phoenix Recovery Center
Here at The Phoenix Recovery Center, we believe in long-term success over short-term “fixes.” This is why all of our recovery plans are individualized and comprehensive, with a focus on the future.
If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, then the time to recover is now. You can do this! We can help.
It can be highly beneficial for moving beyond addiction to understand the concept of denial in alcoholism better, why it occurs, and how overcoming denial is vital for effective recovery. The good news is that once someone is willing to get honest with themselves, there are many effective means, methods, and modalities for recovery. If you feel like you or a loved one is struggling with issues of addiction, mental illness, or both, we can help get you on the right road to recovery right away. You don’t have to go through this process alone. To begin your healing journey complete this short form or call The Phoenix Recovery Center at (801) 438-3185.
