Anyone can become a victim of addiction. Whether you are addicted to alcohol or medications, you need to get yourself treatment. However, there are still many stigmas and myths surrounding drug rehabilitation that may make you think twice about going.
What are some common myths about drug addiction recovery?
In order to rid yourself of the stereotypes about addiction, you first need to understand what they are. Here are some of the most common myths about drug rehab.
Addiction is a Choice
A common misconception about addiction is that addiction itself is a choice. While it may be the choice of an individual to have a drink or smoke a cigarette, forming a dependency on any substance is not a choice. Rather, it is the chemicals within the substances interfering with the brain, forcing the individual to rely on the substance.
In many cases, addiction is a genetic condition. It can also be related to societal and familial pressures; social drinking, for example, can turn into alcohol addiction over time. Addiction is not a choice, but rather, a chronic disease that needs to be treated.
I’ll Lose My Job if I Go to Rehab
A major concern for those suffering from addiction is that they will lose their job if they go to rehab. In most cases, however, it is illegal for your job to fire you for seeking out drug rehabilitation. Those who go to rehab are protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA); so long as your state abides by this law, you cannot legally be fired from your job.
There are some restrictions to this law. For example, if you are unable to safely perform your job upon your return, or if you test positive for drugs after staying at a drug rehab facility, you could face termination. Be sure to read up on the ADA to understand the limitations of the law.
Rehab is a Cure-All
As much as we’d love to believe rehab can completely cure an addict after their stay, this simply isn’t the case. Rehab is just one important step towards managing addiction. After all, addiction cannot truly be “cured”; rather, the symptoms are treated and managed to help individuals stop relying on their addictions.
There are many external influences that can affect those suffering from addiction after rehab. Familial stress, environmental factors, and money problems are just a few issues that could cause a relapse.
Rehab is a great way to learn skills that will help you manage your addiction as well as provide you with others in similar situations. Having a sense of community and belonging helps people cope with their addiction. Rehab also provides activities to take the mind off of addiction and towards healthier habits.
The Same Treatment Works for All Addicts
Addiction affects different minds differently. Even two people who suffer from the same addiction will experience different symptoms. Therefore, not every treatment will work for every individual.
While one person may benefit from talk therapy and Drug Alcohol Detox Program, another may find solace with medication to treat their addictions. There is no one treatment that works perfectly for everyone; it may take time to figure out the individual treatment method that works best for you.
Going to Rehab More than Once is Pointless
As stated above, relapses are not uncommon. Various situations can spur the onset of a relapse, and that is not something to be ashamed of. You may find yourself needing to return to a drug rehab center more than once following your first session.
Going to rehab can still prove beneficial the second or third time around. You may find new strategies to help cope with your addiction that you didn’t receive the first time; if external factors are influencing you, talking about them in a therapy session can also help. Do not fool yourself into thinking rehab is only helpful the first time you go!
Rehab is for the Rich
While some drug rehab facilities can be expensive, there are plenty of options available for those who need assistance paying for treatment. Many insurance policies cover drug rehabilitation expenses; study your specific coverage to see if you would be eligible.
Even if you aren’t covered under your insurance, most drug recovery centers will work with you to find a payment plan that fits your needs. You don’t have to go broke because of drug rehab. Talk to your drug rehabilitation center to see what payment options are available to you!
Relapsing is Defeat
Many individuals who suffer from addiction view a relapse as their addiction defeating them. However, experiencing a relapse is not the end of your recovery. In fact, it is common for those suffering from addiction to experience multiple relapses as they work towards bettering themselves.
A relapse is nothing more than a minor setback on your road to recovery. Most times, experiencing a relapse is just a sign that you need to change your treatment plan or talk with a professional for help. Don’t let relapse keep you from moving forward!
Drug Addiction Recovery for All
While there are still many stigmas surrounding drug addiction recovery, you can learn the truth and push the myths aside. Keep these common myths in mind if you or a loved one are seeking drug addiction therapy. They may help you get further with treatment than you thought possible!
What are some myths you have heard about drug addiction?
We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Share a comment with the myths you’ve heard about rehab, and share this article with your friends and family to stop the spread of stereotypes!
