15 Myths about Substance Abuse Treatment

There are thousands of myths surrounding rehab and substance abuse treatment. Most people who go to treatment quickly find out that these myths are not true but there are some that the myths discourage from ever seeking treatment at all. It is important to dispel some of these myths before they stop you from seeking treatment.

1. Treatment Centers are Religious

This is just not true. Many treatment centers do not involve religion in any of their treatment. If you want a religious treatment then there are religious treatment centers as well.

2. They do not Allow Visits from Family or Friends

Most treatment centers encourage contact with family and friends to both repair the relationship and consolidate a solid support network.

3. You are Forced to do Things you Do Not Want to Do

No one can force you to do thing that you do not want to do or are against your beliefs unless you are ordered to by a court of law. Most rehab centers operate on a voluntary basis and their programs are there to help you not force you.

4. You Have to Be Rich to Go to Rehab

Although we hear of celebrities going to rehab, you do not have to be one to enter a rehab. There are many low cost and free ones available.

5. Only one Form of Treatment Works

There is no specific treatment that works for everyone because each person has their own unique needs.

There are several forms of treatment that work. Everyone is different so sometimes it takes a different type of treatment to help them.

6. You Have to Hit Rock Bottom

You can enter rehab anytime during your addiction. You do not have to hit bottom to do so.

7. Willpower Alone not Treatment Works

Willpower is a powerful thing but willpower alone will not help most people break an addiction.

8. Relapse is Failure

Relapse is a bump not a failure. It is an indication that you might need to change treatment methods.

9. Drug Treatment is Fast

Drug treatment takes time and effort. Like anything that is worthwhile it is not fast.

10. Drug Treatment has to Take a Long Time to be Effective

Withdrawal and drug treatment can be relatively short depending on the type and severity of the addiction.

11. If One Treatment Method Does Not Work None of the Others Will

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, there are a variety of treatments available and if one fails another might just work.

12. Drug Addiction is Voluntary so Treatment Should Not Be Needed

Drug addiction is a chemical and sometimes genetic disease. Treatment is almost always needed.

Four Myths Of Addiction Treatment

13. Treatment Centers are Similar to Spas

Treatment centers have amenities such as massages and onsite gyms but for the most part they are medical and counseling centers.

14. Seeking Help is a Sign of Weakness

Seeking help is definitely not weakness. Admitting you have a problem is one of the strongest things that you can do. It is only weakness if you try to hide that something is wrong and do not get help when you need it.

15. It is Difficult to Find Help

It has never been easier to find help. You can find it by calling 1-800-895-1695.