When your loved one is in denial, their usage is a problem, or they do not want to stop using, it can be incredibly frustrating and heartbreaking. Here is some helpful information to get you through this stage.
When your loved one is in denial, their usage is a problem, or they do not want to stop using, it can be incredibly frustrating and heartbreaking. Here is some helpful information to get you through this stage.
For those with opioid use disorder (OUD), also known as opioid addiction, denial and lack of awareness are commonly seen among people during their early stages of recovery. Keep in mind that OUD is often a symptom of a deeper issue, and denial is a common response.
Each person is unique, but understanding why they are in denial or want to keep using will help you better understand what is driving their resistance. Some examples of reasons include:
It is crucial to try to talk to your loved one about their usage. Talking to them is the first stage to getting them to realize they have a problem and get the help they need. Here is some advice on how to have that conversation.
First, make sure they are sober and calm. And make sure you are in the right frame of mind. Lead with love, empathy, and legitimate concern. Finally, remember that substance use is often the symptom of an underlying issue that needs solving.
When talking to your loved one about their usage, don’t mention drugs, alcohol, addiction, or anything related to substance abuse. Instead, ask them how they’re doing and about what’s going on in their life. If they’re married or have children, ask them about their family. If they talk, it’s important to listen. Just be present, listen, and acknowledge how they’re feeling.
They will likely be defensive. They’re probably scared, embarrassed, or a combination of both. That’s why they deny what’s really going on. Remember, the goal here isn’t to point fingers; it’s to get them to acknowledge reality.
The more they see you opening up, the safer they may feel about opening up as well. If you’re real, raw, and honest with them, they will be more likely to be real, raw, and honest with you. And honesty erodes denial, which can help your loved one move toward recovery.
When you get them to open up about their substance use, let them know you support them unconditionally. Remind them that, with proper treatment, they can recover. Share information about Medication-Assisted Recovery and discuss if they would be open to behavioral counseling support to address any underlying issues. Learn more about Medication-Assisted Recovery.
First, make sure they are sober and calm. And make sure you are in the right frame of mind. Lead with love, empathy, and legitimate concern. Finally, remember that substance use is often the symptom of an underlying issue that needs solving.
When talking to your loved one about their usage, don’t mention drugs, alcohol, addiction, or anything related to substance abuse. Instead, ask them how they’re doing and about what’s going on in their life. If they’re married or have children, ask them about their family. If they talk, it’s important to listen. Just be present, listen, and acknowledge how they’re feeling.
For those looking to quit opioids like heroin or fentanyl, Medication-Assisted Recovery is a flexible treatment option that uses medications and optional behavioral counseling to bring recovery within reach. It is over twice as effective as other ways to quit and the only treatment option recommended by health care professionals.
Speak With a Specialist
Call 833-234-6343
Learn About Options
Text “HELP” to 833234
Visit a Clinic
Find a Local Provider
Recovery is possible with the right help. Explore your treatment options by doing any of the following:
Call 833-234-6343
These services are supported fully through a State Opioid Response (SOR) grant to the Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (TI-081699).
These services are supported fully through a State Opioid Response (SOR) grant to the Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (TI-081699).
Recovery is possible with the right help. Explore your treatment options by doing any of the following:
