Drug Abusers in Denial of their Problem

When we use the term "denial" to describe a person's attitude towards drug abuse we are talking about their impaired insight or failure to recognize the severity of the disorder despite the negative consequences that are associated with the drug use.

 A person who is in denial about their drug abuse problem often cannot see the problem for what it's worth and will assure everyone, as well as themselves, that they are not addicted, that they can stop at any time and that they have full control over what they are doing.  In most cases these beliefs about having control over their disorder, however, could not be any further from the truth.

Research on the topic of drug abuse and denial has pointed to a number of key factors linking the two together.  It is now believed that the constant craving for the drug, the compulsion to use and the chronic relapsing into drug abuse after recovery are all factors that are directly related to a person's impaired insight, or denial, about their drug use.

Denial about drug abuse develops when a person has a difficult time recognizing, accepting and admitting to the signs and symptoms of the addiction they are suffering from.  A person who is in denial about their drug abuse may also fail to see the physical, mental and emotional signs that are occurring and ultimately affecting every aspect of their lives.

Perhaps one of the biggest obstacles a person who is in denial of their drug abuse problem has to face is how their mind is continuously finding ways of rationalizing their drug use.  Factors such as the quantity of the drugs they are taking, how much the habit is costing them and how much time it takes away from their family and occupation are often overlooked making it even harder for the user to recognize their problem. 

Drug abusers who believe that they do not have a problem with drug abuse may also blame or lash out against family members. They may make the family members feel like they are exaggerating the drug abuse, ultimately causing the family to feel like they are the dysfunctional ones.  This misconception can be extremely frustrating for family members, friends and colleagues of the user.

Denial and rationalization not only affect the family of the user but the work, finances and other personal relationships as well.  A drug abuser who has lost his or her job because of their drug use may blame an unfair boss or they may blame a "nagging wife" to justify their desire to go out with friends and get high.  While stresses on the job or in the family happen to everyone, a person who is deteriorating and constantly blaming others may be showing signs of drug abuse and denial.