It's Easier to Change the Story Than the Behavior #addictionrecovery #addictionawareness

In this monologue, Amber Hollingsworth examines how people struggling with alcohol use often construct self‑serving stories to justify their drinking. She describes two common narratives: claiming control over consumption or hiding alcohol to avoid triggering family members, especially when those family members carry past trauma. This leads to a pattern where the day is organized around drinking opportunities and the individual feels they are being responsible by concealing the alcohol. Hollingsworth argues that altering the story people tell themselves—reframing incidents like “I didn’t pass out, I fell asleep” or “I didn’t hide it, I just didn’t mention it”—is often easier than trying to change the actual behavior. From a family perspective, she suggests probing why a person feels compelled to fool everyone and what uncomfortable truth they are avoiding. Ultimately, she warns that denial cannot last; reality will surface, making it essential to confront the underlying truths rather than rely solely on narrative adjustments.










