Ann, how about this; try this exercise:
A person who is negatively affected by another person use of substance to the point of dependence. The person affected is a concerned loved one who lives with or is in the company of the person using substances. This is the exercise, Take the word "denial" and all of the things I previously said about people who are substance dependent. It is the same for the people affected except it is "denial" not substances that is the drug. So go over the criteria for substance dependent and see if you can relate how denial is acting like a substance in the person who is negatively impacted by someone else's using substances.
Are you confused yet?
Just for Today---------------------I am Sober:shades: