The Truth Behind These Addiction Treatment Program Myths

Everyone has heard a myth about something. A myth is known as a widely held but false belief or idea. Such misconceptions are passed from person to person, often getting twisted and becoming more false over time. There is no doubt that myths exist about addiction treatment programs, as well.

As professionals in the addiction recovery space, it’s our job to make sure you hear the truth concerning addiction treatment – and that means getting to the bottom of some of the most popular addiction treatment program myths.

Myth: You don’t need addiction treatment until you’ve hit “rock bottom”.

Truth: If you’re facing any type of addiction – whether alcoholism, drug abuse, prescription drug abuse or even sexual addiction – you can get help as soon as you want. There is no “turning point” for which you have to wait in order to seek recovery. You know your situation best, and if you choose to get help before the problem gets bigger – good for you!

Myth: Addiction is just a physical problem.

Truth: Addiction is physical, mental and spiritual. It’s a disease that can impact every aspect of life. The mental aspect of addiction involves the obsession – the uncontrollable desire to use the substance that gradually destroys everyday life. The spiritual side of addiction has to do with the user’s total self-centeredness. A person who is addicted to drugs or alcohol typically has more spiritual defects (intolerance, selfishness, pride) than character assets (tolerance, humility, service to others).

Myth: Addiction treatment will devastate my family’s finances.

Truth: Drugs and alcohol are expensive. While an addiction treatment program may seem like the more costly option, long-term drug and alcohol use can be even worse. According to one study, “treating alcohol addiction reduces its burden on the family budget and improves life for those who live with alcoholic patients.” That being said, not seeking treatment can be more devastating for a family’s finances over time.

Myth: I can stop if I really want to.

Truth: An addict may start out as a voluntary user, but over time that voluntary use becomes an addiction. It’s not controllable by the person – it takes a physical hold on the body.

When someone is addicted to drugs or alcohol, there is a physical, compulsive need to use the substance. In addition, there is also an inherent inability to stop using the substance once use has started. It’s usually not possible to stop use from simple willpower, because the physical hold is too strong.

Myth: There is an addiction gene.

Truth: According to CNN, research shows that roughly 50 percent of addiction tendencies are attributed to genes – but that means the other half are not. Most of the time, a person becomes an addict because of their environment and personal experiences. Just because a person’s parents or other relatives were addicts does not mean they are bound to become an addict themselves.

If there is one truth you take away from these common addiction myths, it’s this: an addiction treatment program has the power to give you a fresh start. All is not lost. Learn more about Talbott Recovery’s addiction treatment programs and see if they’re right for you.