7.2 – Are you “Fine” or is that Denial?

Another giant hurdle for veterans that are struggling with addiction is denial about their problems. Yes, this is true for most alcoholics and addicts, but it is especially strong in vets for many reasons.

We were taught to tough things out, to put our friends and missions above ourselves. We learned that complaining and being emotional were like contagious diseases when lives were on the line. We had to push through, ignoring our pain and suffering. We were fine, just fine!

It is daunting to admit to ourselves that we need help, ask for that help, and actually go get it. But, this isolation and belief “we are fine” is fatal for many of us.

The next chapter is about the many ways addiction ruins our lives. But, you can do a quick check right now. Have your relationships, health, money situation, and job been suffering because of your substance abuse? Would you be better off without it?

You have probably been in denial about your substance abuse for a long time. It is deeply embedded. When trapped in addiction, we get a distorted view of ourselves and reality. Our substances alter our brains, making us believe what is killing us is our best friend.

This fantasy land of the mind tells us that our self medication is normal. As we get deeper into addiction, our brains become less able to see the truth about ourselves if we ever could in the first place.

Getting help and working with others in similar situations is the way of the strong person. Staying sober, re-finding yourself, and improving can be tough, but you are a veteran, so you know you can do it! I dare you to try.

Self-Study Questions – Denial

How do you view your drinking or drug use?

Do you tell yourself you are fine, can quit when you want, aren’t that bad, something similar? What phrases do you use?

Do you compare your drinking or drugging to other people?

Have you looked honestly at your drinking or drugging recently?

Have you tried to quit or cut back on your own? Has that worked?

How would you change if you were sober and clean?