7 Myths About Addiction

Overcoming substance abuse is a fierce struggle. It’s possible, of course, to get treatment and heal from the disease of addiction through professional support. But society has a way of discouraging people who’re trying to reach out for help. The social stigma around the disease of addiction often keeps individuals away from looking for help. Beaches Recovery understands it can be a challenge both personally and socially to admit to addiction and reach out for support. We’ve put together a list of seven myths about addiction and the truths that you should know about today. Find the right treatment program for you or a loved one and get on the path towards recovery today.

Myth #1–Substance Abuse is a Choice

As myths about addiction go, this one ranks high. Many people believe that if someone abusing drugs would stop, the habit could be over. But nobody wakes up in the morning with the desire to develop a substance abuse disorder.

Truth–Addiction is a disease. It’s a chronic illness of the brain with physiological and psychological symptoms. You can achieve remission, but there is no cure. However, detox and rehab facilities employ therapists who can help you recover.

Myth #2–Good People Don’t Do Drugs

Some people believe that addiction is something that happens to other people.

Truth–Addiction is a disease that can happen to anyone. It doesn’t discriminate between race, gender, and socio-economic status.

Myth #3–One of the Greatest Myths about Addiction is that Genetics Predetermine Your Fate

Some suggest that genetics decide who does drugs and who doesn’t. Usually, someone may point to a family history of drug or alcohol abuse to underscore his or her opinion.

Truth–There is no addiction gene. That said, there is the possibility of predisposition. However, genetics don’t doom you to suffer from addiction.

Myth #4–Detox is All You Need to Quit Using Forever

Unscrupulous advertisers perpetuate the claims that detox cures addiction. They suggest that a three to seven-day stay at a facility will end your substance abuse problem for good.

Truth–Detoxification is a necessary first step. It ends the physiological part of addiction. However, subsequent rehab deals with the psychological portion of the disease. You need both.

Myth #5–Rehab is Something That Only Rich People Can Afford

Some believe that rehab facilities only admit clients who pay cash.

Truth–Good-quality rehab centers partner with major health insurance companies. Examples include Cigna and Aetna.

Myth #6–You Sit Around at Rehab and Talk to People about Doing Drugs

This statement typically refers to group therapy sessions. This is indeed one treatment option you’ll experience at rehab. This is one of those myths about addiction that seems never to fade away.

Truth–However, there is a lot more to recovery than group therapy sessions. Other modalities include:

• One-on-one talk therapy that lets you meet with a therapist
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy as a means of overcoming patterns of dysfunction
• Dual diagnosis treatment for people with co-occurring psychiatric disorders such as depression
• Nutritional counseling and life skills training to prepare you for living sober on your own
• Experiential therapy that encourages you to express yourself non-verbally while gaining introspection

Myth #7–After a Month, the Center Kicks You Out

People sometimes think that facilities will send people on their way before they’re ready. Doing so would be detrimental. It could lead to rapid relapse.

Truth–Many facilities offer extended care, which lets you stay longer if you need extra time. They also provide transitional living situations, which provide you with a supervised roommate setup. Sober living is an excellent step to take before moving out independently.

Don’t allow myths about addiction to keep you from healing. Search out individual counseling services for addiction from Beaches Recovery by dialing 866.605.0532 now.