Myths Surrounding Drug Abuse and Addiction

Misconceptions and wrong information often fuel drug abuse, leading to addiction. Despite being an emotional issue, drug addiction is mostly surrounded by conflicting views. Moreover, portrayal of the stereotypical drug addict in movies and television has given rise to a plethora of misconceptions which divert the reality, creating problems for both the addict and the society.

Due to the prevailing misrepresentations about addiction, many addicts have to let go of their hopes of sobriety. Some of the most common myths that go around about drugs and alcohol are:

Myth 1: A typical drug user is a vile creature

The stereotypical image of a drug user that one visualizes is of a shabby-looking criminal living in the poverty-stricken bad side of town. A person dependent on drugs has the habit of mouthing obscenities and does not spend time on personal hygiene. However, studies have shown that drug addiction is a mental illness that can change the brain chemistry as well as the memory processes.

Myth 2: There is no way out of drugs

The old saying that "a leopard does not change its spots" is certainly not applicable in this case. Many success stories have, time and again, proven that even those who are neck deep into drugs can also return to sobriety, provided they get proper treatment and care.

Myth 3: Relapse is part of recovery

Though true in certain cases, a number of individuals have successfully come out of their addiction problem after undergoing proper recovery process at a drug rehab facility. Due to the prevailing fear of relapse, people often give up the fight against compulsive and even uncontrollable drug use.

Myth 4: Only hardcore drug abusers need treatment

Many drug abusers usually hit the rock bottom before going to the rehab, but this is not a rule. Recovery happens at all stages of addiction. Those who hit the rock bottom have to lose everything and even face the risk of death before they make it to the rehab.

Myth 5: Addiction is a sign of moral weakness

Drug addiction is a chronic mental illness that can change the way a person's brain functions. Many a time, genetic predisposition also plays a major role in addiction, apart from other common factors, such as environmental, developmental, and other psychological factors. Thus, it is inappropriate to describe addiction as a reflection of one's moral character.

Myth 6: Anything prescribed by a doctor is safe

Many prescription drugs are highly addictive and powerful, with chemical structures identical to heroin. In fact, if prescription drugs are abused, they may become the gateway to heroin and other street drugs.

Myth 7: Only hard drugs are lethal, the others are not that bad

While heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine are infamous for their life-threatening consequences, there are numerous other substances or intoxicants that can cause addiction and dependence leading to several impaired body functions and other mental health-related disorders. Alcohol is a classic example of a socially accepted and popular substance which can be lethal if abused.

There is hope

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