There is a stigma that is still associated with addiction. Many families, cultures, and social circles still treat the topic as taboo. It’s within this unspoken enigma where rumors, myths, and misconceptions around addiction could originate from.
It’s time to destigmatize addiction and take a look into some of the strangest myths and misconceptions about drug and alcohol addiction that are not true!
Alcohol Addiction Myths
Alcohol may be a familiar foe, yet alcoholism is plagued with distorted misconceptions. It is possible to help addicts get the help they need by dispelling myths about alcoholism and keeping them from falling into delusion.
Some of the most common and strangest alcohol addiction myths include:
1 – Drinking milk or yogurt before drinking will line up your stomach and keep you from getting drunk and throwing up:
False! – and weird? – Alcohol will reach your bloodstream either way. Eating may slow down the body’s absorption time but the alcohol will eventually make its way there.
2 – All an alcoholic needs to stop is willpower:
No, no, and triple no! Alcoholism is a disease that creates physical and psychological dependence.
Alcoholics, particularly those who are advanced in their condition, will need detox and professional support. Yes! Will power matters, but that’s not all there is to it.
3 – Alcohol abuse and alcohol addiction are the same things:
They are in fact, two different things.
A drinker needs to develop a physical dependence to be considered an alcoholic.
A problematic drinker may experience many of the negative effects of an alcoholic such as missing out on responsibilities and getting into trouble without being physically dependent on alcohol.
A person with alcoholism and physical dependence will have different symptoms such as withdrawals.
Myths About Drug Addiction
Unlike alcohol, drugs are not as familiar to most people. Its illicit status makes them more elusive and hence more prone to misconceptions.
These are some of the most common and strangest drug addiction myths:
1 – Doing drugs only once will turn you into an addict
Probably one of the most dangerous drug addiction myths out there – why?
Well, let’s suppose you believe this and try drugs, or see a friend that tried them. Then, you realize you or your friend didn’t become addicted to them on the first try.
What’s your next thought? Ha! They lied, drugs are not addictive — I can do as many as I want.
See how that can quickly turn into a serious problem?
While some people will be more likely to pick up addiction quicker than others, it’s highly unlikely that physical dependence will come from using only once.
2 – Prescription drugs are safe
Nope! Prescription drugs are as addictive and harmful as illicit drugs. Take them only as prescribed and under medical supervision.
3 – Rehab is only for the wealthy
While rehab and detox may come at a cost — like other medical treatments — most of these costs can be covered with medical insurance.
Financial solutions are also available for those who need them. Rehabs have financial departments that assist in such matters, it’s also free to speak with them for an admissions consultation.
General Addiction Myths
1 – Relapsing brings you back to square one
Relapsing is but a momentary setback, even though relapsing may reset an addict’s day count, it doesn’t mean they are back to square one. All of the knowledge and advancement the addict gathers up to that point will fast-track him or her back into recovery.
4 – You need to hit rock bottom to sober up
Gratefully, this is not true. Rock bottom may serve as a push for some addicts to humble down and seek help; however, it’s wise to avoid testing the depths of the well.
Addicts don’t need to destroy their lives to get better, help is available and effective every step of the way.
3 – Addicts are immoral
Addiction is non-discriminatory, addicts come from all walks of life, moral or immoral, rich or poor, educated or otherwise. Having an addiction problem does not make one immoral, criminal, or less than others.
Yes, it’s true that addiction may drive some to commit crimes or make irresponsible decisions. But in essence, addiction is a mental health disorder that the sick person can’t fully control, this doesn’t make them inherently immoral.
Demystifying Addiction and Getting Help
Did we demystify any drug or alcohol addiction myths for you?
Demystifying addiction and normalizing help is a stepping stone to building an educated society that is better prepared to combat drug addiction and alcoholism.
Veritas Detox offers addiction treatment to help you or your loved ones get sober and stay that way.
Help is available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week at no cost or obligation. Speak to one of Veritas recovery experts, to seek the help you and your loved ones need.
Contact Veritas Detox today!