Common Myths About Drug Abuse | South Coast Counseling

One of the most dangerous things about addiction is that many don’t understand what it is. While drug abuse can be different for everyone, there are myths out there that simply aren't true and can hinder a person on their road to recovery.

1. Myths on Prescription and “Natural” Drugs

Some believe that because a medicine is prescribed, that it can’t be addicting or dangerous. Unfortunately, this is not the case, which is why doctors have to write specific scripts for most drugs, to ensure that patients are not getting more than they need.

While many would like for you to think that drugs are “safer” because they are naturally grown in the ground, this isn't true either. Drugs such as marijuana and hallucinogenic mushrooms can alter brain chemistry, resulting in dangerous side effects.

2. The Myth on Drug Abuse and Stability

If drug abuse is seen as cut-and-dry, black-and-white situation, it is assumed that one cannot be addicted to drugs if they live a stable life. However, drug addicts can come from all walks of life. This means that just because someone has a good job and a stable home-life, it does not mean that they are immune to being addicted to drugs.

In the chance that a drug addict has the ability to hold a job or maintain a marriage, it could simply mean that they have tolerant people in their lives, or that they are good at hiding their addiction. These users could potentially be more dangerous to themselves, as they do not have to suffer the typical consequences of drug abuse.

3. The Big Detox Myth

One of the most difficult steps on the road of recovery for an addict is getting through detox. Because the body is adjusting to a normal balance of chemicals, detox can be physically taxing on the body. Many people believe that, due to the hardcore nature of detox, one is cured as soon as they've gone through it. This isn't necessarily true.   

Programs that advertise for a rapid detox or all-curing detox can be dangerous for the person in question. Addiction should be treated like an illness, one that has no real cure. Detox is only the beginning of the road to recovery, as many need intense counseling throughout the entirety of their life in order to fully beat drug addiction.

4. Myths on Drug Addiction Treatment

Contrary to popular belief, just because someone has been addicted to drugs in the past, it doesn't make them a “bad” person. Drug abuse Huntington Beach is not related to one particular demographic of people, either. And in order to get well, you do not have to be religious to successfully undergo treatment. There are programs that are centered around religion, yes, but they are not for everyone.       

Drug addiction treatment is about people wanting to get well and lead a better life for themselves; it is about a lifelong journey on the road of recovery. Please visit our website if you feel that you or a loved one is suffering from drug addiction.