If you’re considering seeking addiction treatment for yourself or a loved one, you may be hesitant to do so because of the stigma associated with entering rehab, or the way the media portray people with substance misuse. Don’t let pervasive myths or a sense of shame hold you back from getting the life-saving help you need. Here are some of the most common misconceptions about rehab, and why they aren’t true.
Misconception 1: Addicts Must Hit Rock Bottom
It’s a common Hollywood trope that someone with a substance dependency has to reach a “rock-bottom” milestone before they can admit they have a problem and work toward recovery. In reality, anyone with a substance misuse disorder can benefit from seeking a qualified recovery program. You do not have to experience a turning point like losing your job or serving jail time to realize you need to turn your life around and quit using alcohol and drugs.
Misconception 2: Relapse Does Not Equal Failure
Though relapse isn’t always part of everyone’s recovery journey, it can and does happen to many people. For some, relapse is a natural part of the cycle of drug addiction, not a failure to manage it. Having a relapse does not make someone a “hopeless case,” or mean there’s no point in them continuing to try to break free of their addiction.
Misconception 3: People in Recovery Are “Less Than”
Often, there’s a bias or stigma associated with people who choose to enter recovery. Many people automatically assume those who seek help are admitting a weakness, or that their lives are lacking in some way. This stereotype could not be more untrue. Science tells us addiction is a chronic disease, one that literally changes our brain chemistry. For someone who has developed a substance dependency, it’s not as simple as walking away from using drugs or alcohol. They need to get professional help to understand and overcome their problems.
Start Your Recovery at Canyon Crossing
Canyon Crossing Recovery is a qualified women’s-only transitional living program in Prescott, Arizona. Through our programming, we aim to help you grow as a person and develop healthy coping mechanisms that allow you to live up to your full potential. Reach out today to get a new lease on life.
