Setting the Record Straight: Addiction Myths

Before it was better understood, alcoholism and addiction carried negative social stigmas in America. Although there are still lingering remnants of these stigmas, a recent study indicates that Americans’ perceptions of addicts and addiction are changing for the better as Americans become more educated about addiction (Read How Americans Perceive Addicts & Addiction). This article will address some of the lingering myths about addicts and addiction, some of which help perpetuate negative social stigmas.

Myth #1: Addiction is perpetuated by a lack of willpower and poor choices.

Although it is possible that poor choices led to the development of the addiction (for example, hanging out with friends who were bad influences), once an addiction develops, the addicts’ power to make choices is complicated by a number of factors. For example, science indicates that there may be a link between predisposition for addiction and genetics (Read Addiction & Genetics), which means that even if an addict intended to only use, say, alcohol moderately, genetic factors may increase the chances of developing alcoholism. Furthermore, the concepts of tolerance and dependence are important to understand about addiction. Dependence (both physical and psychological), in particular, means that an addict’s body and mind begins to depend on the substance and cannot function comfortably without its presence; if an addict stops administering the substance, withdrawal occurs (Read Withdrawal and Detox: Get the Facts). The symptoms of withdrawal can range from mildly unpleasant to severe and potentially fatal, depending on the substance. For more information on the withdrawal symptoms of specific substances, visit the Drugs page. Because of the possibility of serious consequences, the safest and most effective way to go through detox is in a medically monitored program (Read Why You Shouldn’t Fight Addiction Alone).

Myth #2: An addict must want treatment for it to work.

The truth is, whether or not treatment will be successful varies by individual. Some initially resistant addicts who entered treatment at the firm persuasion of family and friends at an intervention have successfully completed rehab programs and are leading sober lives. Many times, addicts will verbally resist treatment as a way to feel even slightly in control of an out-of-control situation; however, these addicts often desperately want help for the root cause of the addiction (for example, past emotional trauma) as well as for the addiction itself, which often is masking a much deeper problem. In contrast, some addicts who voluntarily entered treatment will relapse frequently and may ultimately return to their addictive substance or behavior. A desire to enter treatment should not be considered the litmus test for success.

Myth #3: For treatment to work, an addict must first reach “rock bottom.”

“Rock bottom” is a metaphor for a low place in the addict’s life; but family and friends often perceive rock bottom to be something different from what addicts perceive it to be (Read Rock Bottom: Not What You’d Imagine). But either way, waiting for an addict to hit rock bottom can be unnecessarily dangerous. Addicts can begin recovery at any point; and the sooner, the better!

Someone I know is addicted to a substance or behavior. How can I help them?

If the addicted person continues to deny that they have a problem (Read Dealing with Denial), you may want to consider arranging an intervention with all of the addict’s family and friends present to send a strong, unified message (Read Intervention FAQ and Intervention: Is It Time?). eDrugRehab has helped numerous families arrange, prepare for, and implement interventions to get their loved one on the path to recovery (Read Preparing for an Intervention). We can also help you select a rehab facility that fits your needs and your budget (Read What to Ask a Rehab and How to Pay for Rehab).

Al-Anon, a support group for the loved ones of alcoholics, estimates that the average addict affects the lives of at least four other people. Addiction is emotionally taxing for everyone who is involved. Getting help for addiction can seem overwhelming, but it does not have to continue to control your life! Visit the Contact Us page to learn how you can discuss your situation with an addiction or intervention specialist today (Read Talk It Out: Is Therapy Right for You? and How to Forgive an Addict).