Denial keeps us locked into the behaviour we are trying to change by convincing us that what we’re doing is not that bad, necessary on some level or will change. All these assumptions are wrong. This post poses the questions you need to ask yourself to navigate your way out of denial.
Many people use denial as a defence mechanism to avoid confronting unpleasant or uncomfortable realities. This is especially true in the case of addiction and mental health issues, where people may refuse to acknowledge their problems or the impact they have on their lives and the lives of those around them. However, denial only serves to exacerbate the problem and prevent people from seeking help. In this article, we will look at the basic psychology of denial and how people can work through it to overcome addiction and mental health issues.
Denial is a psychological defence mechanism that allows people to avoid the emotional pain and discomfort that comes with acknowledging a problem or reality that threatens their sense of self. When confronted with a difficult truth, denial allows people to dismiss or minimise the issue in order to maintain their self-esteem and avoid feelings of shame, guilt, or anxiety.
Individuals may deny mental health problems for a variety of reasons. For one thing, there is still a significant stigma associated with mental illness, which can make it difficult for people to recognise their problems and seek help. Furthermore, many people are ashamed or embarrassed about their symptoms and are afraid of being judged or rejected by others. Some people may be afraid of the consequences of admitting their problems, such as losing their job or damaging their relationships.
Denial is especially common in addiction, where people refuse to admit they have a problem or the impact their substance use is having on their lives. This can be due to a variety of factors, such as the shame and stigma associated with addiction, the belief that they have control over their substance use, or the fear of facing the difficult recovery process.
However, denial only serves to perpetuate addiction and prevents people from seeking help. Individuals must first recognise that they have a problem and be willing to seek treatment in order to overcome addiction. This can be a challenging and unpleasant process, but it is necessary for long-term recovery.
Breaking through denial can be a difficult and unpleasant process, but it is a necessary step towards recovery from addiction and mental health issues. Here are some coping strategies for dealing with denial:
Read more about denial in drug and alcohol addiction cases here and on this page here. This page is part of a series of articles that we did about understanding the links in addiction and trauma and getting support and treatment. It was a great process where we rounded up all the counsellors and started asking the kinds of questions that so many patients were asking. Definately worth a visit.
Unfortunately there is an element of shame associated with having either a drug, (which includes prescription medication addiction) and/or an alcohol problem. Admitting you are in recovery often has a stigma attached. Regardless of anything else that you have achieved, the word “addict” or “recovery” can make you feel self-conscious. Addiction is the elephant in…
Sexual dysfunction is a widespread issue that can affect both men and women. It can be caused by a number of factors, including heavy alcohol consumption. This article will look at the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for sexual dysfunction caused by heavy alcohol consumption. Sexual dysfunction caused by heavy alcohol consumption Severe alcohol abuse…
Xanax (alprazolam) is a benzodiazepine medication commonly used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It works by increasing the levels of a neurotransmitter called GABA in the brain, which promotes feelings of calm and relaxation. While benzodiazepines like Xanax can be effective in managing symptoms, they can also cause dependence and withdrawal symptoms if they…
Nirvana’s frontman, Kurt Cobain, is remembered not only for his groundbreaking musical contributions but also for his tragic battle with drug addiction. The devastation that addiction can wreak on an individual, their loved ones, and their community is vividly illustrated by the story of Kurt Cobain. Throughout his music and in the press, Cobain detailed…
In order for relationships to succeed there needs to be an alliance that includes a mutual effort toward instilling positivity, empathy, commitment, acceptance and respect. Without the commitment toward this seemingly obvious and simple relationship can fall into many toxic or destructive holding patterns. Recognise that many toxic habits are hardwired into our culture and…
Dormonoct is the commercial name for Loprazolam which is classified as a benzodiazepine class medication. Dormonoct is commonly sold as Dormonoct, Somnovit and Sonin in South Africa as a prescription drug often used as a treatment for many insomnia, muscle relaxant related conditions. Facts on insomnia, muscle relaxant medications Dormonoct is schedule 5 psychotropic medication…