Common Myths About Addiction

There are several common myths about addiction. We all feel the costs of addiction, from higher crime rates to higher taxes and healthcare costs. Addiction is no myth. Addiction is very real.

What is Addiction?

An addiction is when a person uses a substance and engages in a certain behavior in spite of any negative consequences that exist. In some instances, primarily drug and alcohol addiction, there is primarily a physical dependence on the substance. With other forms of addiction, there are primarily psychological effects. One of the myths about addiction is that psychological dependence and physical dependence don’t coexist when in most cases they do. If you believe that you or a loved one may suffer from addiction, give us a call at 765-358-7320 today.

Addicts are Weak People

A common myth about addiction is that people become addicts because they are weak people. That is not the case. Studies have shown that some may have a genetic predisposition to addiction. Some individuals become addicts because of personal behavior and exposure to certain social situations. We’ve even found that addiction is a disease.

Addicts Can Detox on their Own

Addiction is enforced by certain learned behaviors and predispositions. Drug and alcohol detoxification are medical events that need to be monitored by a healthcare professional. A substance abuse professional should also administer behavioral courses and structured substance abuse treatment.

Addicts Have to Hit Rock Bottom to Quit

Often, addicts begin their addiction as a “functioning” addict. They have their career and family in good order and bills paid. At this point in an addict’s road to a “life event” involving their addiction of choice hasn’t occurred just yet.

The ultimate rock bottom for drug and alcohol abuse is unfortunately death. Rock bottom is different for everyone. Some common myths about addiction are based around, what is considered bottom.

Getting arrested and going to jail could be rock bottom for certain people. Others may lose a job, fail a test, or lose a relationship because of their drug use. Often it’s what could be considered a “wake-up call”. Such an event can shock a person into a realization that they might have a problem with addiction.

Addiction Treatment Doesn’t Work

Even though the potential of relapse exists, it often is part of the recovery process. Overcoming addiction is something that is always possible and achievable with determination and the proper support system in place.

There are other myths about addiction.

Though we’ve listed just a few of the myths about addiction, there are others that exist. The myths about addiction are very real. Only with education, can we dispel the current myths that exist about addiction. If you believe that you or a loved one may suffer from one of the myths about addiction, give Bridges of Hope a call now at 765-358-7320.