Wellness: 5 Myths About Drug Addiction

Drug addiction is complicated, and myths persist that sometimes make it difficult for people to identify and treat the signs of addiction. Now, let’s take a look at five common myths associated with drug addiction – and put these myths to rest.

1. Drug addiction is a choice – not a disease.

Drug addiction is a chronic disease, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Although a person may consciously choose to use a drug for the first time, prolonged drug abuse changes his or her brain. In this scenario, drug abuse affects a person’s self-control and causes strong urges to use drugs. And at this point, a person may inadvertently develop a drug addiction.

Like any disease, drug addiction requires careful monitoring, management, and care. With the right approach to drug addiction treatment, an individual can find the best way to address his or her addictive behaviors both now and in the future.

2. People who lack willpower are more prone than others to succumb to drug addiction.

A lack of willpower is frequently associated with drug addiction – despite the fact that there are many factors that may contribute to a person’s addictive behaviors.

In addition to a lack of willpower, common factors that may contribute to a drug addiction include:

Gender: Research indicates men are more susceptible than women to drug addiction.

Genetics: A person may be more susceptible than others to drug addiction if a blood relative has dealt with drug addiction.

Peer Pressure: Teenagers and young adults may be more prone to drug addiction due to intense social pressure from friends.

Psychological Conditions: Anxiety, depression, and other psychological conditions increase a person’s risk of drug addiction.

Ultimately, anyone can develop a drug addiction at any time. If a person understands the dangers associated with drug addiction, however, he or she is well-equipped to address the initial signs of drug addiction before they get out of hand.

3. Use of prescription medications cannot lead to drug addiction.

Prescription medications are sometimes used to treat pain. But these medications can be addictive as well.

More than 15 million people in the United States abuse prescription drugs, Foundation for a Drug-Free World reports. Additionally, roughly 2,500 individuals between the ages of 12 and 17 abuse a prescription pain reliever for the first time every day.

For those who are concerned about a prescription medication addiction, it is generally a good idea to consult with a doctor. If a doctor prescribes a medication, he or she can explain the side effects associated with the medication. Plus, a doctor can provide detailed instructions on how to use the medication. By following a doctor’s instructions, a person can use a prescription medication properly and minimize his or her risk of addiction.

4. Drug addiction is hopeless and incurable.

Drug addiction is challenging, painful, and mentally and physically exhausting. At the same time, drug addiction is not hopeless and incurable.

There is no one-size-fits-all cure for drug addiction. Instead, a person must seek out medical support to determine the best course of action to treat his or her drug addiction. This individual then can work with their doctor or an ibogaine clinic to develop a plan to address his or her addictive behaviors. Best of all, this individual can find the best way to permanently alleviate his or her drug addiction symptoms.

5. Drug addiction can be treated exclusively with counseling or rehabilitation.

Counseling and rehabilitation often provide significant value to people dealing with drug addiction. But counseling or rehabilitation on their own are unlikely to help a person achieve long-lasting drug addiction relief.

By using a combination of counseling, rehabilitation, and medical care, an individual can take a comprehensive approach to treat his or her drug addiction. This combination helps a person address his or her drug addiction symptoms. It also enables a person to explore the reasons why he or she developed a drug addiction in the first place.

Ibogaine therapy is quickly becoming a top choice to treat drug addiction, too. With ibogaine therapy, an individual uses ibogaine, a plant-based, naturally occurring substance, to return to his or her pre-addicted state. This individual then experiences dreamlike visions that empower him or her to evaluate addictive behaviors from a new perspective. Finally, an individual gains deep insight into his or her addictive behaviors and can take steps to address these behaviors going forward.

The Bottom Line on Drug Addiction Myths

Drug addiction myths cause confusion, and in some instances, make it tough for those dealing with drug addiction to get the help they need. By learning about drug addiction, an individual can identify the signs of addiction in himself or herself and others. This individual next can share his or her drug addiction knowledge and empower others to combat drug addiction.

Don’t let drug addiction myths continue to persist – learn about drug addiction, its causes, and its symptoms. In doing so, anyone can help address drug addiction.

Sources:

https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/understanding-drug-use-addiction

https://www.centeronaddiction.org/addiction/addiction-risk-factors

https://www.foundationsrecoverynetwork.com/three-myths-drug-addiction/

https://www.drugfreeworld.org/drugfacts/prescription/abuse-international-statistics.html