There are many misconceptions about Addiction, and despite all that research and medicine has learned about it in recent years, many myths persist about addiction and its treatment and recovery. While there is still much to learn about this complex, chronic disease, there are plenty of things we do know, so let’s take a look at them now.

Addicts Are Bad Or Immoral People

 Unfortunately, this is a pervasive myth that even many well-intentioned people have. Even Addicts themselves believe this at times. The fact is that addicts are just people. They are no different than anyone else. Everyone has faults, nobody is perfect. Addicts sometimes do things that are not okay when they are in their active addiction. Addicts in recovery who are working a program and who have been given quality treatment to help them overcome their disease are often some of the kindest, most generous and honest people you will ever know.

Addiction Is A Choice

When a person picks up drugs or alcohol for the first time, they are making a choice. When they do it again, they are making a choice. Most people are making a choice when they have a drink or decide to use drugs at a party. However, once a person becomes addicted, the choice becomes a non-issue. No one would choose to be an addict. The life of an addict is a sad, scary thing. I addicts had the choice, they would choose to be in control of their using, but this is not the case.

We aren’t sure exactly why some people become addicts and others don’t, but we know it isn’t because they “choose” to be. There are genetic factors involved, as well as environmental and psychological factors.

Prescription Opiates Are Not As Bad As Heroin

This is a popular myth right now. Many people who are addicted will use this myth to fool themselves and others that their problem is “not that bad” because they are not using heroin or putting needles in their arms. The fact is that opiates like Vicodin and Oxycontin are every bit as dangerous and as addictive as any street drug, and the fact that someone has a prescription for them does not make them any less of an addict as the person who is using heroin.

If You Have A Job And Pay Your Bills, You Don’t Have A Problem

Unfortunately, this myth has kept many addicts from getting the help that they need. Being able to function as an addict doesn’t mean you are not an addict. Living with active addiction means living a life only half lived. Things may even look good on the outside, with a nice home, food in the fridge and nice things, but the reality is that the person who is continuing to use is not only hurting themselves but hurting their family, too.

If You Are An Addict, You Are A Hopeless Case And Won’t Change

This is one of the worst myths about addiction. The saying “once an addict, always an addict” is not true. While some addicts unfortunately never make it into recovery, a great many do, and go on to lead productive, fulfilling lives. There are many highly educated professionals, business owners, lawyers, doctors and nurses, teachers and addiction specialists who have at one time been actively using addicts. Some have been homeless or in jail. These are people you would never in a million years suspect ever had a problem. Most people might be surprised that they know someone personally who is in recovery. They may work for them, or play sports with them or live next door to them. Addicts can and do recover, and often go on to do amazing things.

Detoxing Cures Addiction

Another misconception is that you will stop being addicted once the drugs are “out of your system.” While it is true that once detox is complete you may no longer be physically dependent on drugs, it does not mean that you are no longer addicted. Detoxing is an important step in the recovery process, but it does not address the psychological aspects of addiction, which can be far more powerful and long-lasting than the physical ones. The best way to address addiction is to enter treatment. Some treatment centers offer detox services, and if they don’t have them on-site, then they can refer clients to a clinic that does

This is another myth that even addicts buy into. It is simply not true. Addiction is a chronic, progressive disease. Just like any other disease, there can be a recurrence of symptoms. This does not mean that all recovering addicts are doomed to relapse, however, it shouldn’t be seen as a failure. Yes, relapse can be frustrating, both for the addict and also their family and friends, but there are many addicts who have relapsed, sometimes repeatedly and still went on to find long-term recovery.

The danger with relapse is that it can be dangerous and even deadly. A person never knows when their next drug or drink may be their last. This is why it is so important to seek treatment for addiction and to continue to participate in recovery. If a person does relapse, they should try to get back as quickly as possible, and surround themselves with lots of love and support.

If you are a woman who is struggling with addiction, New River Wellness Center can help. Our treatment program is designed specifically to meet the unique needs of women. We treat addiction, eating disorders and trauma, as well as other co-occurring disorders. Our program is located in a warm, friendly and safe environment. Call 1-877-697-3268 today to schedule a free, confidential consultation.

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