Approximately 14.5 million people aged 12 years and older in the United States suffer from alcohol use disorder, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. This figure includes 9 million men and 5.5 million women. The physical, mental, and lifestyle impacts of alcohol misuse can be serious and life-changing, both for the person themselves as well as family members and friends.
The good news is that effective treatment options are available for people. However, many people are unable to admit their alcoholism in the first place. When an alcoholic in denial is adamant that they do not have a problem, it can be extremely difficult for them to overcome it.
In this blog post, we will look at why some alcoholics deny their addiction and how you can support them on their journey to recovery.
What Is Anosognosia?
Anosognosia is defined as the lack of ability to perceive the realities of a condition. People with this condition are unable to accept that they have a condition, such as alcoholism, that matches up with a formal diagnosis or apparent symptoms. It is the result of changes to the brain, rather than simply stubbornness.
According to a study published in National Library for Medicine, alcoholic anosognosia is seen as a major psychopathological syndrome of chronic alcoholism. There are various treatment options for this condition, including antipsychotic therapy and motivational enhancement therapy.
What Are the Signs of Denial?
Many people with an alcohol use disorder blame their problem on situations and people. For example, a person’s hectic work life may serve as an excuse for needing to ‘unwind’ using alcohol.
Another sign of dential is concealing the extent of the problem. People may hide evidence of their drinking or drink alone or make excuses for stopping off at a bar in order to have drinks.
Other signs of denial include:
- Defensiveness
- Dismmisivness
- False agreement
- Making comparisons
- Rationalization
The term ‘functioning alcohol’ has been used to describe a person who, despite struggling with alcohol use disorder, is able to maintain their family life, job, and friendships. It is less commonly used today given the potential for stigma that may prevent a person from seeking the help they need.
Click here to learn more about what is a functioning alcoholic and advice on approaching an alcoholic in denial.
The Science Behind Alcoholic in Denial
If you know an alcoholic in denial, you will be aware of why frustrating and difficult it can be to give them the support they need. This is because they may not accept that they have a problem in the first place and do not require help. We recommend that you speak to a professional addiction treatment center for more information.
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