As addiction is becoming prevalent, myths are also being perpetuated. Here are some of the myths to stay away from:
Addicts lack morality – This is simply not true. Addiction can take hold over a person for a lot of reasons but it does not happen because they are bad people.
Coping addiction requires willpower – Drugs cause the mind to alter itself and coping drug addiction has little to do with willpower as it is a disease.
Addicts are easy to spot – Addiction is not only spread to poor/homeless people, it can extend to anyone and can be hard to spot.
Private dosage doesn’t hurt – People who are closest to the addicts also suffer because of addiction.
Alcohol is less dangerous than drugs – Just because alcohol is legal, people think it is safer than other drugs. However, alcohol causes the largest amount of casualties.
Education, relocation or a new job helps – Significant life decisions might give an addict a temporary relief from addiction. But, they rarely lead to permanent changes in consumption habits.
Addiction is only related to substance abuse – Addiction does not only extend to drugs and alcohol. There are people addicted to gambling, sex and gaming, which are equally detrimental.
Alcoholics drink everyday – Try to understand this: addiction has nothing to do with regularity. It has to do with the association with the substance. The people who have an abusive association with substances are addicts.
Once an addict, always an addict – We ask people not to perpetuate this stereotype. There are people who lead healthy lives after leaving their addiction. Hence, it is not impossible for a person to leave their addiction as it is a treatable disorder.
Doctor prescriptions do not lead to addiction – Prescription drugs are becoming a scare in many parts of the world. Medications for treating pain, anxiety, ADHD are highly addictive and can cause dependancy.
Addiction can be treated alone – There is a reason behind why most treatment programmes are group-based. Sound research has found out that being surrounded by people having similar conditions can be instrumental for treating addiction.
Addiction is a choice – Addiction has nothing to do with choice. After the first hit, the altered brain leaves no choice to the person. This is why experts classify addiction as a disease where a person is left without choice but to indulge in consumption.
Myths are just myths. They don’t hold any substance to it! In case of addiction, it is always advised to take a professional help. If you are suffering from addiction, get in touch with us at Skyward Treatment now!