8 Common Myths About Substance Use Disorders

There are many common myths in society about substance use disorders born from outdated research that treated addiction as a social and moral failing.

These myths hurt families and individuals living with substance use disorders and make it more difficult for people to seek treatment.

Fortunately, researchers and other experts are helping to educate the public on the scientific reality of addiction to remove stigma and make care more accessible.

Understanding The Myths And Stigma Around Addiction

Substance use disorders are chronic health conditions. However, studies show that those living with addiction still face stigma and discrimination that can impact their well-being and prevent them from seeking help.

In 2021, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) performed a study that found that there were 61.2 million people aged 12 or older who used drugs in the past year.

The study also found that 46.3 million people 12 and up met the DSM-5 criteria for having substance use disorders, and 94% of those living with substance use disorders did not receive any treatment.

Based on this data, it is clear that substance use disorders are far more common than many people realize. Providing compassionate care is key to countering the ongoing public health crisis.

Myth 1: Addiction Is A Choice

While someone might make an initial choice to experiment with drugs or alcohol, a substance abuse disorder is not a choice.

Addiction occurs due to physical changes in the brain’s chemistry, and some people may be predisposed to develop a substance use disorder due to genetics, trauma, and other factors.

Research shows that the use of addictive drugs results in psychological and physical dependence and creates a compulsive and sometimes uncontrollable need for drug or alcohol use.

Myth 2: Only Illegal Drugs Are Addictive

Addiction doesn’t just occur as a result of illicit substances. Addiction to prescription medications is a growing issue.

Prescription medications such as painkillers, stimulants, and sedatives can be extremely addictive and have adverse effects on health and overall well-being.

Even when prescription medications are prescribed, someone may still be at risk for addiction.

Myth 3: People With Substance Use Disorders Lack Willpower

People with substance use disorders don’t lack willpower; substance use changes the brain and overrides willpower through physiological processes.

Changes in brain chemistry caused by addictive substances use the reward pathway of the brain to elicit a feeling of pleasure.

These changes to the brain can reduce self-control and the ability to make healthy decisions by creating an intense impulse to take drugs or alcohol.

These impulses will cause people to keep using drugs and alcohol even when they experience negative consequences.

Myth 4: Addiction Is A Sign Of Immorality

Those living with addiction may behave in a way that is in violation of their own personal morals or the laws of society.

If someone looks at the behavior of someone living with addiction, they may believe that the person lacks morality, but addiction causes compulsion.

However, addiction is caused by chemical changes in the brain and, therefore, isn’t about morals. Despite someone going against their morals, those living with addiction feel that they can’t stop using.

Myth 5: Recovery Is A One-Time Event

Recovery from addiction is an ongoing process because drug addiction is a chronic disorder.

While some can quit after receiving treatment once at a rehabilitation facility, most of the individuals living with substance abuse require long-term treatment and, in certain cases, repeated treatment.

Myth 6: Going “Cold Turkey” Is The Best Way To Quit

Going “cold turkey” or abruptly stopping drug or alcohol use isn’t always the best way to quit. Going cold turkey can be extremely dangerous with certain drugs or alcohol types.

Some of these substances can create life-threatening withdrawal effects and need to be tapered off. Abruptly stopping a substance also isn’t feasible for most people living with addiction.

Myth 7: Addiction Only Affects Certain People

Addiction can affect anyone regardless of personality, age, race, and upbringing. However, there are specific genetic, social, and psychological risk factors that place someone at a higher risk for addiction.

Factors that put an individual at a higher risk for addiction include exposure to trauma, substance use in the family, certain mental health disorders, and other factors.

Myth 8: All Treatments Are Effective

Not all addiction treatments are effective. Addiction is a chronic, long-term condition that can be managed but can’t be cured. There is no universal treatment for addiction.

Addiction treatment needs vary from person to person, and not all treatments are effective for every individual.

Effective treatment methods for addiction need to consider someone’s personal circumstances and psychological needs.

Learn About Addiction Treatment Options In Massachusetts

If you are looking to learn more about addiction treatment available in Massachusetts, we can help. Contact our team at Bedrock Recovery Center to learn more about our treatment methods.