We talked recently about self-confidence and the idea that we should consider faking it (confidence) until we make it. Some people might worry that this is a sign of being fake, of being inauthentic.
This fear seems to be a common concern. It also relates to other fears. On one hand, people are worried about being fake or phony. On the other hand, they might be worried about revealing their true selves. If they do this, they’re worried about what can happen.
Addiction seems to relate to these fears. Some people abuse substances because they don’t want to face the truth, or they feel like they can’t handle the truth. Of course, if people abuse substances, they feel that they have even more to hide. They could be hiding their abuse as well as hiding information about their
- physical health
- mental wellness
- appearance
- relationships
- living conditions
- finances
- job/school status
People who abuse drugs and alcohol also hide other things, such as how they’re actually feeling as well as the physical evidence of the drugs and alcohol themselves. Clearly, the lives of substance use disorderrs involve lots of hiding and deflection, not honest, transparent openness.
Even if people receive treatment for substance use disorder problems, their fears might not evaporate. Sure, they don’t have to hide drugs and alcohol in their homes. They don’t have to use makeup or wear long sleeves to hide track marks on their arms that they received from using needles to inject drugs. But the insecurity and low self-confidence that initially drove them to abuse drugs and alcohol could still remain.
That’s why seeking outside help is so important. If people have low self-confidence, they can be dwelling on their own thoughts and feelings. Outside help, such as therapy, can help provide a new perspective for people. It can help them build their confidence and help them become more comfortable with themselves. This way, the people won’t feel as if they have to use drugs and alcohol to hide from themselves or others. They can accept the consequences of who they are and what they do.
