Denial is a cornerstone of addiction, a powerful force that can blind individuals to substance use’s destructive consequences.
“Those suffering from substance use disorders often deny the existence of their addiction, the substances they use, the quantities consumed, the frequency of use, the people they use with and the negative impact their addiction has on themselves and others,” said Adèl Grobbelaar, the manager of the South African National Council in Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (Sanca) Wedge Gardens substance use treatment centre.
This denial is a formidable obstacle, trapping individuals in a vicious cycle of substance use and rationalisation.
“Overcoming denial is not a simple matter. There is no magic wand that can instantly dispel this powerful emotion.
“Denial is the primary force that keeps people in active addiction. It shields them from the harsh realities of their situation, allowing them to maintain a distorted perception of their behaviour,” Grobbelaar explains.
She says the denial exhibited by individuals with substance use disorders can be so convincing that it often leaves loved ones feeling bewildered and questioning their sanity.
“The addict’s ability to rationalise and justify their behaviour can make it difficult for others to believe that there is a problem.”
It is essential to avoid shielding individuals from the consequences of their actions if you want to help them break free from denial.
“By allowing them to experience the negative consequences of their substance use, loved ones can help them understand the destructive nature of their addiction.
“Caring for someone does not mean taking over their life or controlling their choices. Instead, it involves supporting them in reaching their full potential.
“If an individual is unwilling to take steps towards recovery, it is a lost battle,” said Grobbelaar.
Denial can detrimentally affect all aspects of life because it is a pervasive human tendency and an initial response to adversity.
“While not exclusive to those with substance use disorders, denial can pose particularly significant challenges for individuals struggling with addiction.
“The consequences of denial can be severe, often resulting in legal issues, relationship breakdowns, and health problems.
“These negative outcomes may eventually force the individual to confront the reality of their addiction and seek professional help,” said Grobbelaar.
However, the years or months spent in denial can create a significant emotional burden and make the recovery process more complex.
“Overcoming denial is a crucial step in recovering from substance use disorders. It requires a willingness to surrender to the addiction and accept the support offered by others.
“By acknowledging the destructive nature of their behaviour and seeking help, individuals can begin to address the underlying issues that contribute to their addiction and embark on a path toward recovery,” said Grobbelaar.
