Addiction. Everyone knows its definition, but there are still many misconceptions about it.
From how to handle addicts to the inner workings, many people have a black and white belief system concerning addiction, which can be harmful.
This article covers several myths you may find about addiction and explains why they’re wrong. Continue reading to learn more so that we can all help break the vicious cycle of misinformation about addiction and ultimately help people recovering from substance use break free of stigma.
Myth 1: Only People Who Hit Rock Bottom Should Seek Treatment
There is a stereotype that a person who uses substances should only seek treatment at their lowest. That idea of “rock bottom” could mean many things, whether losing their family, home, and everything else.
The truth is that a person does not have to lose everything before seeking help. In many cases, seeking help earlier at somewhere like Master Center can increase the chances of a successful recovery.
Myth 2: Addiction Is a Choice, So We Should Have No Sympathy for Addicts
The myth that addiction is a choice is still quite persistent. Sometimes, it’s in good faith, such as people wanting the person to hold themselves accountable. Other times, it’s used to shame the person and in completely bad faith.
The truth is that addiction to drugs is a complicated disease, with genetics, upbringing, and several factors beyond someone’s choice.
Not to mention, people can become addicted to substances that most can take without issue. For example, many people can have the occasional drink. Meanwhile, someone who has a genetic predisposition to alcoholism may have one drink and become addicted.
Myth 3: Once Someone Relapses, You Should Give Up Hope
Another misconception is that if someone relapses or retakes the drug during recovery, they’re not worth saving.
The truth is that many addicts will relapse. One reason is that there’s trial and error in figuring out one’s triggers, which may cause them to want to try a drug again.
You should not give up on a diet just because of one big meal, and neither should you give up on a substance user just because they relapsed. Tactics like shaming are counter-productive and may, in fact, fuel further relapse.
Myth 4: Addiction Only Applies to Illegal Substances and Alcohol
We associate addiction with heroin, meth, or other drugs. However, when it comes to legal drugs, we imagine alcohol.
However, the truth is that one can become addicted to more drugs besides those. For example, a person may become addicted to legal painkillers or even over-the-counter medications.
In addition, it does not have to be a drug. Someone may have an addiction to food or the Internet.
No one should feel ashamed because they have an addiction that’s different from others. The point is getting help to eliminate addiction.
Final Thoughts
Addiction is a complicated part of being human. It’s an issue that many of us need to educate ourselves about and show empathy towards to help those suffering.
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