Alcohol abuse is often something that is largely denied among clients prior to seeking treatment for their struggles with the substance. Because this is so common, it would not be surprising if your loved one also happens to be in denial. So how can you address this denial and help your loved one realize what is happening so they can make the first step towards treatment? These ways to deal with denial can help shine light on what to do.
Denial and Alcohol Abuse
Individuals suffering from alcohol abuse or other substance abuse are usually blocked by a great deal of denial. Denial is a friend to alcohol abuse and addiction because if clients continue to find excuses for themselves or downplay their drinking habits and relationship with alcohol, it opens the path to continue such behavior with no end in sight.
One of the first things new attendees of support group meetings might do is to stand up and to admit their struggles with alcohol abuse and addiction. This shows just how important it is in the recovery process to face denial head on. Overcoming denial is the first step towards a healthier, more stable life in recovery.
What to Do When Your Loved One is in Denial
Here are a few tips on what to do if your loved one is in denial about alcohol abuse…
- Don’t sugarcoat their alcohol abuse habits. Speak openly and candidly with them.
- Educate. Dispel the myths of alcohol abuse so your loved one can see a clear picture of the reality of the situation and their involvement.
- Have honest answers ready for the excuses that might be presented.
- Explain that there is hope and that everything can be changed with the help of an alcohol abuse treatment program.
Treatment for Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol abuse may be treated via an alcohol abuse treatment program. The first step in recovery is to admit to the alcohol abuse and how powerless one has been when it comes to the substance. After this step, true healing and progress towards recovery can occur.
The alcohol abuse treatment center primarily utilizes psychotherapy for treatment. Psychotherapy occurs in many forms including one-on-one, family, group and cognitive behavioral therapy. Psychotherapy finds the underlying causes of the alcohol abuse. Other treatment methods include education, support group meetings, stress management and even lifestyle management. Simple changes to your diet and exercise routine can work wonders when it comes to improving your overall health in recovery.
If you or someone you love is suffering from the effects of alcohol abuse, substance addiction or any other type of addiction, please call us today. Our addiction treatment counselors can help you deal with physical, emotional and psychological consequences of drug and alcohol abuse. A substance abuse treatment program is effective, safe and has helped many men reclaim their lives. Destination Hope is a full service drug, alcohol and dual diagnosis treatment facility in Florida for men suffering from substance abuse and mental health issues.
