There are many myths about substance abuse. Some are very difficult to get rid of, since they are so widely believed by most of the populace. However, their prevalence does not make them true.
Whether you’re looking into benzodiazepine addiction treatment in Los Angeles or you’re trying to rid yourself of a dependence on some other drug, you should understand the difference between fact and fiction. With that in mind, let’s look at some myths about substance abuse right now.
Once You Go Through Rehab, You’re Cured
You can’t “cure” someone of drug addiction issues. If you can get them to stop using for a time, then that’s great, but a relapse is always possible.
Even if someone gets clean and stays that way for decades, a single event can trigger a relapse. When that happens, it’s usually because of some type of trauma, but just about anything can serve as a catalyst.
If someone is sober and not using their drug of choice, they must remain vigilant.
If You Are Not Physically Addicted, Then You’re in Control
Many medical professionals define addiction as being physically dependent on a particular drug. In other words, if you don’t go into withdrawal if you are deprived of that substance, then you do not fit the clinical definition of addiction.
While this may be technically true, just because you don’t have a physical addiction to a drug, that does not mean that you don’t have a problem with it. Problematic drug behaviors can have an incredibly wide range. Even if you don’t have a physical dependence on a substance, other factors can strongly point to you having an ongoing issue with it.
If You Can Basically Keep Your Life Under Control, You Don’t Have a Problem
This is also incorrect. You might have a veneer on your life that leads you to believe that you don’t have a substance abuse problem. You may hold down a job and have what you consider to be healthy relationships with those around you.
There are high functioning addicts that seem to have their lives more or less under control, but that appearance can crumble very quickly. Looking under the surface can reveal you have a serious substance abuse problem, even if you have become an expert at hiding the behaviour.
If You Have a Genetic Proclivity, You Will Always Become a Drug Addict
While it’s true that some individuals are more at risk of having problems with drugs or alcohol because of genetic factors, that does not mean they are destined to become addicts. Personal responsibility and the choices you make are the most important determining factors when it comes to drug use.
You Can Beat Drug Addiction with Your Own Willpower
Some individuals are reluctant to seek help because they feel it means they’re weak. There’s nothing weak about asking for assistance with a substance problem. In fact, you could argue that it takes a lot more strength to admit you need a helping hand.
