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Here are some common myths and perceptions of those experiencing substance abuse
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Here are some common myths and perceptions of those experiencing substance abuse
"They are lazy"
TRUTH: People with addictions are actually working very hard to cope with their life, just in a way that is not productive
"They are bad people"
TRUTH: They are suffering from a disease that has Biological and Environmental triggers, in addition to some elements of individual choice (just like diabetes or depression)
"They chose to be addicted"
TRUTH: Addiction is a progression, not a single conscious choice. Dependence can happen before someone realizes it and before they fully understand all of the negative consequences
"There is no reason why they should use"
TRUTH: They may have a genetic or mental health-related predisposition toward addiction. They may not know how to cope with stress. They may be desperate to change how they feel. People or things in their environment may be reinforcing their use.
"They are in denial"
TRUTH: Most have thought about quitting, but are just not sure if it's worth it or possible
"They need to hit rock bottom"
TRUTH: They do not need to hit rock bottom if we can help them see negative consequences that are important to them and increase the hope and skills needed to change. People with lower severity addictions (who have not yet "hit bottom") have better treatment outcomes
"They are hopeless cases"
TRUTH: Change is challenging, but POSSIBLE for ANYONE. For most people, it takes multiple quit attempts or treatment episodes to stop using substances. Relapse is common, but risk for relapse decreases the longer a person is quit