In which phase of addiction do individuals typically deny their substance-related problems?

The precontemplation phase is characterized by individuals not recognizing or acknowledging that they have a problem with substance use. During this phase, individuals may be unaware of the negative impacts their substance use is having on their lives or may minimize the seriousness of their behavior. This denial is a common feature of this phase, as individuals are often not considering change or seeking help because they do not see their substance use as problematic.

In contrast, other phases, such as contemplation, involve individuals beginning to recognize their issues and considering the possibility of change. The action phase is when individuals actively engage in addressing their substance-related problems, and the maintenance phase focuses on sustaining the changes they have made. These phases highlight a progression in awareness and behavior change, which starts with denial in the precontemplation phase.