Addiction grips people across the world every single day. It is a complex and challenging issue, often compounded by the fact that treatment and recovery are surrounded by misunderstandings and misconceptions. For those who are already struggling with addition, and for their loved ones, these myths about addiction lead to shame and guilt, blocking the pathway to recovery. If you or someone you love are ready to seek treatment, don’t let these addiction myths get in the way! Now is the time to reach out for support and seek out the truth about addiction and recovery. SBIRT Mississippi is here to share some of the most common myths about substance and alcohol use disorders, and bring a higher level of understanding to these complex diseases.
Misconceptions About Substance Use Disorder and Treatment
Myth: Addiction is a choice or personal failure.
People around the world try alcohol and drugs every day with no addictive results. While many believe that addiction occurs due to poor decision making or weakness, the truth of the matter is that addiction has much more to do with genetics, environment, and mental health. If you are predisposed to addiction due to these aspects, you may become addicted to drugs or alcohol and that addiction is a complex brain disease that has little to do with choice.
Myth: You cannot change if you are addicted to narcotics or alcohol.
With support, treatment, and dedication, long term recovery is absolutely possible with any addiction. Successful substance use disorder treatments occur everyday, and you or your loved one could be the next person to take the first step towards recovery. Taking the quick, free, and 100% online SBIRT assessment can point you in the right direction of treatment programs near you that are suitable to your specific needs.
Myth: Addiction only affects certain types of people.
The fact of the matter is that addiction occurs in every country and across social classes. Every society is plagued by substance use disorder, and while some individuals are more predisposed to becoming addicted, it can truly happen to anyone.
Myth: Recovery only happens after you’ve hit rock bottom.
Recovery from substance use disorder can occur at any time. Waiting for the worst to happen can be incredibly dangerous and early intervention has been proven to significantly improve the sustainability of recovery. The long and short of it? Don’t wait to seek treatment for substance use disorder. Take the quick online SBIRT assessment to determine the right treatment for you and to find nearby addiction treatment centers.
Myth: Medications for addiction are just another addiction.
Medications for addiction treatment were developed after years of research and studies. MAT is now a commonly used and scientifically proven method of treatment for certain substance use disorders. Why are they effective? Medications for addiction treatment help manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and promote long-term recovery. Medications, such as buprenorphine or naltrexone, do not produce a “high” (therefore are not habit-forming) and help individuals focus on recovery, therapy, and stabilizing. As with every treatment, MAT is only suitable for particular individuals and your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific needs.
Myth: Addiction treatment is ineffective or a scam.
Treatment for substance use disorders have proven incredibly effective for both short-term and long-term addictions. Recovery does take time and just as with any other illness, relapse may be a part of the process. This is simply a sign that your treatment plan may need to be adjusted. In any case, the truth remains that treatment has worked for millions of people around the world. It is most effective to use a personalized treatment plan and apply various treatment methods for long-term recovery.
Myth: Treatment for substance use disorder or alcohol use disorder is too expensive for me.There are many affordable and state-funded treatment programs for substance use disorders. Taking the SBIRT assessment can help you locate the different SUDs treatment centers in Mississippi near you and help you explore the various affordable treatment options.