Asana Recovery

DENYING AN ADDICTION AND PROLONGING RECOVERY

denying an addiction and prolonging recovery

Denial is a very common defense mechanism, and is usually the first reaction when confronted with the truth, especially when it comes to an addiction. Most people who are struggling with substance use get stuck in a rut where they try to convince themselves and those around them that substance use isn’t negatively affecting their lives, or that it’s just a temporary issue.

Denying an Addiction and Prolonging Recovery

Part of addiction denial is the belief that you’re not as bad off as the next person. You feel as if you’ve got things under control and you don’t need professional help, but just a little time to get over it. Admitting that alcohol use has more control over you than you have over it isn’t easy, but it’s an important first step. 

Denial is often the greatest obstacle in addiction treatment as it prevents you from fully committing to recovery. If you are entering addiction treatment to appease others, and not because you believe that you need to change things in your own life, you are still in denial of your substance use disorder. Loved ones often move past the denial stage prior and are focused on treatment sooner than the afflicted individual, which is why it is sometimes said that those suffering from addiction are often the last ones to find out that they truly do have a substance use disorder. If you have a loved one or colleague who needs professional help but they are in denial of it, forcing them into treatment is not always the best option.

The first step to recovery is to get someone to understand that they might have a problem. Then they may become open to the idea of discussing their situation with a professional. Once there has been a shift from denial to acceptance there is a stronger likelihood of being open to the recovery process.

Acceptance does not only refer to acknowledging that there is a problem but also accepting that it needs to be acted on. At this stage, you begin the rewarding journey towards sobriety.

At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. While some may believe they can make it alone, rehabilitation programs are essential in the fight to break dependency. The road ahead is not a smooth or easy one, but you can traverse it if done so with the support of the right team. Counseling and aftercare processes can assist you by addressing the psychological facets that led you to addition and help you build a structure from which to better cope with life without succumbing to addiction.The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery, and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.