Breaking Denial

Breaking Denial tackles the pervasive issue of denial in addiction recovery, offering a path to sustained change through self-awareness. It argues that overcoming addiction isn't just about willpower but confronting the denial that masks the problem. The book explores how denial functions as a psychological defense mechanism, rationalizing and minimizing the harmful consequences of addictive behaviors. Interestingly, denial is often rooted in fear, shame, and past trauma, highlighting the complexity of addiction.
The book progresses from defining addiction and its various forms of denial to outlining practical strategies for cultivating self-awareness, such as mindfulness and journaling. It emphasizes the transformative power of understanding one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without judgment. A key insight is the importance of therapy and support groups in breaking down denial and fostering self-discovery.
Ultimately, the book provides relapse prevention techniques grounded in self-understanding, offering a compassionate and empowering model for personal growth and addiction recovery.