There are plenty of myths and stereotypes surrounding drug and alcohol addiction and rehab, and often, those misconceptions can stand in the way of recovery.
The most common myths, along with some indisputable facts
Treatment isn’t effective until you hit rock bottom. Many people hit rock bottom in the form of broken relationships, legal difficulties, damaged health or lost employment, but it isn’t necessary to bottom out to be successful in treatment. In fact, the sooner you get into treatment, the quicker you can get your life back on track. Addiction only gets worse with time, and sometimes, rock bottom can be too late.
Treatment doesn’t work. Treatment isn’t 100 percent effective, but it works for many people. In some cases, recovery requires more than one attempt, but repeated stints in treatment shouldn’t be considered a failure. According to NIDA (the National Institute on Drug Abuse), most people who complete treatment stop using drugs and improve occupational, psychological and social functioning.
Withdrawal is miserable. It’s true that withdrawal from drugs or alcohol is no fun. However, a qualified treatment center or detox facility can prescribe medications that ease cravings and relieve the difficult symptoms of withdrawal. Never attempt to stop using drugs and alcohol on your own; quitting “cold turkey” is extremely difficult and can be dangerous.
Treatment is too expensive. Again, it’s true that quality treatment can be expensive. However, treatment is generally available for anyone who needs it. Some treatment centers and rehabs provide full or partial scholarships, while others offer affordable payment plans or costs based on income. If you have insurance, it will cover part or all of your treatment. Many employers offer treatment plans for employees.
