There is a lot of misinformation about drug and alcohol addiction treatment in California. This is understandable, given the complex nature of addiction. However, it can harm people trying to get help for themselves or a loved one. This blog post will debunk 11 common myths about addiction and drug and alcohol treatment. Read on to learn the truth about addiction!
11 Common Myths About Addiction:
1. Addiction is a choice.
Fact: Addiction is not a choice. It is a chronic, relapsing brain disease that requires professional treatment.
2. You have to hit rock bottom before you can get help for addiction.
Fact: You don’t have to hit rock bottom to get help for addiction. It’s better to get help sooner rather than later.
3. Drug and alcohol treatment is expensive.
Fact: Drug and alcohol treatment can be expensive, but many options are available to make treatment more affordable. There are also many scholarships and grants available to help cover the cost of treatment.
4. Drug and alcohol treatment is only for people who are “serious” about quitting.
Fact: Drug and alcohol treatment is for anyone who wants to quit using drugs or drinking. It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been using or how much you use; treatment can help you stop.
5. You must go to rehab to get help for addiction.
Fact: You don’t have to go to rehab to get help for addiction. Many different treatment programs are available, including outpatient programs, 12-step programs, and sober living homes.
6. Treatment doesn’t work.
Fact: Treatment does work. In fact, it’s estimated that for every dollar spent on addiction treatment, there is a return of $12 in savings on health care, criminal justice, and lost productivity costs.
7. Relapse is a sign of failure.
Fact: Relapse is not a sign of failure. It is a common part of the recovery process. In fact, it’s estimated that between 40 and 60 per cent of people in recovery will experience a relapse at some point.
8. You have to be completely sober to benefit from treatment.
Fact: You don’t have to be completely sober to benefit from treatment. In fact, many people in treatment are still using drugs or drinking alcohol while they receive help for their addiction.
9. Once you’ve completed treatment, you’re cured.
Fact: Addiction is a chronic disease that can be managed but not cured. However, treatment can help you manage your addiction and live a sober, healthy life.
10.Drug and alcohol addiction is a death sentence.
Fact: Drug and alcohol addiction is not a death sentence. With treatment, people with addiction can and do recover. In fact, it’s estimated that 20 million people in the US are currently in recovery from drug or alcohol addiction.
11.People with addiction are weak.
Fact: People with addiction are not weak. Addiction is a chronic, relapsing brain disease that requires professional treatment.
Ending:
As you can see, there are many myths about addiction and drug and alcohol treatment. However, the facts show that treatment is effective and can help people struggling with addiction. So if you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, don’t believe the myths – get help today!
