There are plenty of myths circulating about drug and alcohol addiction and what it insinuates about the afflicted person. Unfortunately, these myths are incorrect and only serve to make people with addiction feel even worse about themselves and more unlikely to reach out for help. Instead of criticizing those with substance use disorders, it is more productive to understand the truth about addiction and how to encourage a loved one to get treatment.
At Promises Brazos Valley, we offer a full range of residential and outpatient addiction treatment programs in College Station. If someone you love is struggling with addiction, contact us online or call 979.426.0086 to discuss how we can help.
Common Myths About Addiction
Myths about addiction can lead to stigma that discourages people from getting the treatment they deserve. Clearing up those misconceptions can help individuals and their loved ones understand the nature of addiction and why it is so challenging to quit, no matter how much a person wishes to do so. The following are some common myths about addiction.
Myth: Addiction Is a Choice
A person does not make a conscious choice to become addicted to drugs or alcohol. It is not a moral failing nor a matter of lacking willpower. Instead, addiction, also known as substance use disorder (SUD), is a complex chronic condition that is influenced by genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.
Myth: Addiction Only Affects Certain Types of People
Despite stereotypes about people with addiction coming from specific socioeconomic backgrounds, this disorder can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or social status.
The most common contributors to addiction can be a part of anyone’s life. Peer pressure to use drugs or alcohol, stress in your personal or professional life, childhood abuse or neglect, and experiencing a traumatic event can all increase the likelihood of using substances and developing an addiction.
Myth: A Person Struggling with Addiction Can Quit if They Want to
As much as a person may want to stop using substances, cravings and severe withdrawal symptoms can make it feel impossible. And in the most serious cases, quitting at home without the help of professionals can put them at risk of seizures and coma.
Myth: There Is No Hope for People with Addiction
Although overcoming addiction can be challenging, and a person may experience multiple relapses before they achieve lasting recovery, this does not mean that they are hopeless causes.
People with substance use disorders need the proper treatment and support from their loved ones and addiction treatment professionals. Enrolling in aftercare and alumni programs and attending support groups can further cement their commitment to recovery.
What Are the Signs of Substance Abuse?
Dispelling myths about addiction is essential so you can understand what your loved one is going through. Opening the lines of communication can encourage someone you care about to consider enrolling in addiction treatment. However, some people with this chronic disorder are in denial about having a problem. You can share the following signs of substance abuse with them to provide some perspective:
- Changes in behavior, like social withdrawal, mood swings, irritability, and a decline in personal hygiene
- Physical symptoms such as tremors, rapid weight loss or gain, and bloodshot eyes
- Neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or school
- Secrecy or lying about drug or alcohol use
- Changes in sleeping patterns, either sleeping excessively or having difficulty sleeping
It’s important to note that substance abuse includes using prescription drugs without a valid prescription or taking them more frequently than a doctor advises. For alcohol, substance abuse means consuming more than moderate amounts. For men, over two drinks per day or more than 14 per week. For women, over one drink per day or more than seven per week.
Contact Promises Brazos Valley for Comprehensive Addiction Treatment
By spreading awareness of the reality behind common myths about addiction, Promises Brazos Valley hopes to create a more supportive and empathetic environment for those affected by this challenging condition. To receive the welcoming, non-judgmental support you or a loved one need to heal from addiction, contact our team online or call 979.426.0086.