When hearing myths about drugs, you should first ask yourself where the source of information is coming from. Can you rely on your friends more than an expert in drug research? Is a celebrity more reliable than a treatment specialist? The fact that myths about drug and alcohol rehab, recovery, and substance use disorders exist is harmful. It can take away from the recovery process and keep people who need it from seeking treatment.
At The Right Step Hill Country, we make it our mission to provide accurate and up-to-date information about substance use disorders. We believe in the power of evidence-based approaches and in treating each person with respect and dignity. Our professional team is here to help you regain control from addiction, so don’t let myths stand in your way. Call 1.844.675.1628 today for more information about our San Antonio addiction treatment programs.
Myths About Drugs and Alcohol
Understanding the truth about drugs can save your life. Furthermore, it can help you end an addiction before it begins by spurring you to seek an accredited addiction treatment program that understands how to help. Below are some common myths about drugs and alcohol that almost always lead to an addiction.
Drugs Aren’t Addictive—People Have Addictive Personalities
While it is true that some people may carry addictive traits, it doesn’t negate the addictive properties of certain substances. Drugs have profound psychological and physical effects on the brain. Nearly every product on the market today—both illicit and prescription—is designed to alter brain function.
Drugs impact the production of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin or dopamine. An increase in dopamine produces euphoria, relaxation, or pleasure. If the substance continues to produce pleasure, the brain becomes dependent on the drug. This is why stopping the drug after prolonged use becomes difficult.
One Drink a Day Doesn’t Hurt
This myth about drugs is somewhat conditional. A drink a day may be harmless for some people with a high level of self-control. However, habits are formed as a result of behavioral patterns. If a person drinks every day for several months or years, the pattern they created becomes increasingly difficult to break.
For people who lack self-control, one drink a day can become two drinks a day, and so on. They slowly increase their intake. If a person intends to relax or get drunk, they have to drink more to feel the effects of alcohol. This leads to addiction, dependency, and a wide range of health problems.
Addiction to One Drug Doesn’t Necessarily Lead to an Addiction to Another Drug
Some myths about drugs do warrant some merit, such as a person addicted to a substance doesn’t necessarily get addicted to another. For instance, a person who is addicted to prescription medication may be able to snort cocaine once and walk away.
However, co-occurring addictions are common in the U.S. People who seek treatment for drugs often abuse alcohol, smoke cigarettes, or have an addiction to another substance. For some users, a single drug can be a gateway to experimentation and addiction to other drugs.
You Can Quit Anytime You Want
This may be one of the oldest myths about drugs. Again, this myth is somewhat true, depending on how you view it. People who decide to quit using drugs can do so. However, very few can do it alone. Even fewer sustain a self-recovery for very long. This is why professional care and support are crucial to recovery.
A person who enters an addiction treatment center is far more likely to recover from addiction than someone who attempts it alone. Treatment centers offer science-based care, holistic treatment, individual and group therapy, and numerous resources for extended treatment after rehab. If they participate in everything available to them, they are far more likely to avoid a relapse.
Myths About Drug and Alcohol Rehab
Unfortunately, there are also several popular myths about drug and alcohol rehab. Rehab is an excellent opportunity for people struggling with addiction to overcome their dependence on substances and build the foundation for a healthier, happier life. Some common myths about drug and alcohol rehab include:
- Rehab doesn’t work – Rehab is highly successful when done properly. Treatment centers offer a wide range of therapies and activities tailored to the individual’s needs.
- Rehab is too expensive – The cost of treatment varies depending on the type of facility and length of stay, but many insurance plans cover at least some of the costs associated with addiction treatment.
- Rehab will take away control – The goal of rehab is to give individuals the tools to take control of their lives and make positive changes. Professionals at drug and alcohol treatment centers emphasize self-reliance and empowerment as part of the recovery process.
- Rehab is only for people with severe addictions – Anyone struggling with substance abuse can benefit from rehab. Whether the addiction is mild or severe, treatment centers offer care and support to help individuals achieve sobriety.
These false myths lead to dangerous assumptions about the addiction recovery process. The truth is that addiction is a medical disorder and can be treated with evidence-based care in a professional setting.
Bust the Myths About Drugs at The Right Step Hill Country
Do you need help with drug addiction, and how to reduce misconceptions by learning myths about drugs? If so, then contact The Right Step Hill Country. Addiction treatment programs at The Right Step Hill Country include:
- Drug and alcohol detox
- Inpatient rehab programs
- Outpatient addiction treatment programs
- Rehab aftercare planning
- Dual diagnosis treatment programs
Our compassionate and experienced staff is ready to help you begin your recovery. Contact us online or by calling 1.844.675.1628 to find out more about your treatment options.