Drug addiction treatment is something not everyone understands. After all, for someone who has never struggled with alcohol or drug addiction, it can be difficult to understand t the challenges addiction and substance abuse can pose.
A variety of pervasive myths about addiction tend to spread misinformation, which can potentially pose harm those who are trying to get help. Here are a few of the most common myths about drug and alcohol addiction and the truth behind them.
Myth No. 1: Overcoming Addiction Is About Willpower
Many people are under the impression that stopping the use of drugs and alcohol is something that can be done if someone simply wants to badly enough.
The truth is that, when you expose your brain to substances over time, it alters the brain in ways that produce the compulsion to use. That makes it very difficult to overcome addiction by simply willing yourself to – it’s about understanding how your brain has changed and working with professionals to identify behaviors and change them.
Myth No. 2: Prescribed Medication Abuse Isn’t Harmful
The use of prescription drugs is thought of by some as safer simply because a doctor has recommended their use. The truth is that powerful medications that are prescribed, such as opioids, can lead to addiction – especially if used long term.
Misuse of these drugs can have deadly consequences. Never assume a drug is “safe” simply because a doctor prescribed it to you – and especially because a doctor prescribed it to someone else.
Myth No. 3: Since Addiction Is a Disease, It Can’t Be Treated
Addiction is often categorized as a disease because it impacts how the brain functions, but that doesn’t mean that it can’t be treated. Therapy and other treatment modalities can be used to help treat and reverse the impact of addiction on the brain.
Myth No. 4: You Have to Hit Bottom Before Seeking Treatment
Movies and television have perpetuated that myth that hitting rock bottom is the only point when treatment is warranted, but that could not be further from the truth. In fact, the earlier in the addiction process you seek treatment, the better off you’ll be. The longer an addiction goes on, the tougher it is to treat. You don’t have to wait until you hit rock bottom before seeking help and getting on the road to recovery.
Myth No. 5: If Treatment Failed Once, It Won’t Work
In almost every case, recovery involves setbacks. If you suffer a relapse, it doesn’t mean that treatment didn’t work, it simply means you need to recommit yourself to the treatment and get back on track.
If you or someone you love is interested in finding out more about drug treatment in Pocatello, Moonlight Mountain Recovery is here to help. Contact us now to learn more about our medical detox, rehab and recovery center programs in Idaho.
Call Now 208-505-9990
