Without personal experience, individuals may make some incorrect assumptions about addicts, the substances they use, and addiction itself. Sadly, this is seen not only in the general public but also within the healthcare setting. While much of the stigma of addiction has been reduced in recent years, there are still common myths about addiction that persist. By talking more about addiction and increasing education, we can further reduce the stigma, help addicts find treatment sooner, and have more open conversations.
Addiction Defined
Addiction is a chronic disease that is characterized by repeatedly engaging in the use of substances or behaviors, despite any risks or harmful consequences. While we typically think of drugs and alcohol when we think of addiction, behaviors such as gaming, gambling, or consuming pornography can also be addicting and require treatment. While drug or alcohol use often begins voluntarily, it may become more compulsive over time. With continued drug or alcohol use, an individual’s brain pathways change in such a way that it is almost rewired and quitting becomes increasingly difficult.
Why Do Some People Get Addicted and Some Don’t?
Lots of factors come into play when we look at substance use and addiction. One person may become addicted and another may not. While we don’t know exactly why, we do know that things like genetics, existing mental disorders and adverse childhood experiences play a large role in addiction. Additionally, the age of first use can contribute greatly to addiction. The younger an individual is when drug and alcohol use begin, the more likely that the use will be disordered. At Laguna View Detox, we take a holistic approach and customize addiction treatment for you.
Common Misconceptions About Drugs
Beyond the myths about addiction, there are a lot of misconceptions about drugs too. Many believe that marijuana is not addictive or that prescription pills are safe because they came from a doctor. While most will not become addicted to marijuana, some will. As for prescription pills, it only takes a few moments of watching the news to see how the opioid crisis has grown out of people taking prescribed pills such as a Vicodin or Oxycontin. It’s not only drugs that can be dangerous, drinking alcohol can have serious consequences. Drinking alcohol impairs your judgement and your reaction time. While previously thought to be a right of passage, college-aged drinking and drug use is now known to put individuals at a greater risk for being victims of sexual assault, academic problems, and more.
Common Myths About Addiction
One of the most common myths about addiction is that the individual would quit if they “really wanted to quit.” Here at Laguna View Detox, we understand that it is much more complicated than “wanting to quit”. We know that addiction is not a character flaw. We know that you may want to be free of drugs and alcohol but not yet have found the path to get you there. Often it takes people more than one attempt to achieve long-term sobriety and that does not indicate anything about a person’s character. Addiction is a complex disease that requires long-term treatment. There is no one size fits all answer and there’s no cure. Treatment for addiction is ongoing and long-term.
Get Help Today at Laguna View Detox
At Laguna View Detox, you will get round the clock holistic care for your addiction. We are one of the leading drug rehab centers in California. We provide luxurious, individualized inpatient rehab treatment in one of the most beautiful areas in Southern California. We are dedicated to helping you detox safely and seeing you succeed. Contact us today and let us help you with your addiction!