5 Myths about Addiction

Familiarizing Yourself with 5 Myths about Addiction

5 Myths about Addiction

While there are many myths about addiction, there are a few that are more common than others. Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disease which is characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behavior. Addiction is a disease. For some people, this may be a shocker. Yes, addiction is a disease. Which leads to myth number one.

Myth 1: Addicts Can Stop Using at Will

Of all the myths about addiction, this one is the most blasphemous. An addict, by definition, cannot stop using when they choose to. They have a disease that requires proper attention and care. Additionally, addiction is a life-long disease which may (or may not) result in relapse. Individuals do not choose to be addicts. Regardless of the consequences, the addicted individual will continue to seek out and do drugs – not because they do not love you – because they are suffering from a disease. One of the biggest myths about addiction, is that the addict has free-will over what they are doing.

Myth 2: Relapse Equals Failure

Since addiction is a relapsing disease, relapse does not equal failure. It just means the addict may need additional rehab and/or therapy. Relapse is expected with addicts since it is part of the disease. Viewing the relapse as a failure may cause the addict to feel ashamed, apathetic, hopeless, and guilty. Reacting in a negative way may cause the addict to continue using. This is a normal part of recovery. Please help the addict to understand this rather than shaming them.

Myth 3: You Cannot Get Addicted to Prescription Meds

All the facts about drug addiction point to this being a fallacy. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the most commonly abused substances by people in the United States aged fourteen and older are prescription medications (after alcohol and marijuana). Some of the prescription medications have mind-altering properties and thus get abused (taken in a manner not intended by the physician).

Myth 4: Rehab Does Not Actually Work

This school of thought is especially insulting to those who have undergone treatment and have been successful. Ignorance is typically the reason people say such things – or maybe they had a bad experience. Do not go saying things of this nature to someone who is attempting to seek help at a rehab center. Residential rehab is an effective form of treatment for many people in this country. During rehabilitation, the addict will undergo a series of therapy, and support to plan for their future. Most importantly, rehab is a way for the addict to remove themselves from their usual and toxic environment.

Myth 5: Only Illicit Drugs are Dangerous

The fact that drugs like heroin and cocaine have a negative connotation is a good thing. However, they are not the only substances that are dangerous – and deadly. One of the deadliest drugs is actually legal. Alcohol is a legal substance in the United States and is readily available for purchase in many places. If you are twenty-one or older – you can purchase alcohol. According to NIDA, about eighty-eight thousand people die from alcohol-related issues in the United States every year. Over ten thousand people die from alcohol related car accidents every year. When someone tries to say that the hard drugs are the most dangerous – remind them of these statistics. You cannot argue with the facts about drug addiction.

Addiction myths and facts are ample. To become more familiar with addiction myths and facts, conduct some research and call Better Addiction Care at (800) 429-7690 The staff is ready to answer your questions.