We toss this phrase around pretty lightly these days, even jokingly. But what is it really getting at? Definition: being “in denial” is usually taken to mean refusing or being unable to accept painful realities about a situation or about oneself. And it can be profoundly painful, for ourselves and those around us.
Really interesting to dive into a phrase I grew up with (my dad was addicted to alcohol but was sober for 30 years before he died) & another v close family member is showing v strong ‘in denial’ traits about their situation right now. It’s challenging to be back in that space and I’m reflecting on my emotions & thinking carefully about how and if I engage. I’m going with emotional detachment right now but it’s tough.
What does it mean to be "in denial"?
Really interesting to dive into a phrase I grew up with (my dad was addicted to alcohol but was sober for 30 years before he died) & another v close family member is showing v strong ‘in denial’ traits about their situation right now. It’s challenging to be back in that space and I’m reflecting on my emotions & thinking carefully about how and if I engage. I’m going with emotional detachment right now but it’s tough.