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Misconceptions about addiction have shaped public opinion for generations. For many families, even talking about addiction was (and sometimes still is) taboo and often swept under the rug. We know, however, that the more open conversations we have around addiction, the better chance we have of healing from this disease.
It’s important to remember that while some of us may struggle with the disease of addiction, we do not struggle alone. Addiction can feel isolating; however, recovery is strengthened through connection, community, and evidence-based care. When we begin to challenge long-held misconceptions about addiction, we allow hope to take root and create space for healing.
Below, Dr. Jason Powers, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Positive Recovery Centers, shares three misconceptions about addiction, dispels the myths behind them, and explains why open conversations matter.
WATCH: Top 3 Misconceptions About Addiction | Ask Dr. Powers on YouTube
Misconception #1: Addiction is Not a Disease
As Dr. Powers explains, “ Addiction is a disease like any other disease; it’s impossible to define a disease and exclude addiction. Addiction has a sick organ system afflicted by the disease and follows a predictable course, and it responds to treatment.”
Truth #1: Addiction is a Disease and Should be Treated Like Any Other
Viewing addiction through the lens of a disease reframes how we view both the struggle and the solution. Addiction deserves the same compassion, medical attention, and long-term care we give to any other health condition. It is not a moral failing or a lack of willpower. Addiction is a treatable illness that affects the brain and behavior. And, as with other diseases, recovery often requires ongoing support, evidence-based treatment, and patience as healing unfolds.
Misconception #2: Addiction Treatment is Ineffective
Dr. Powers shares that, “ There was a pivotal study that was done, and it looked at addiction treatment outcomes compared to other chronic disease treatment outcomes like asthma, high blood pressure, diabetes, and they found success rates equivalent across chronic diseases. If we can get people engaged in good evidence-based treatment for long enough, we’re gonna see outcomes go up, and eventually, this will no longer be a myth.”
Truth #2: Addiction Treatment is Effective
According to Facing Addiction in America: The Surgeon General’s Report on Alcohol, Drugs, and Health addiction, or substance use disorder, is defined as“a medical illness characterized by clinically significant impairments in health, social function, and voluntary control over substance use.”
In reality, viewing addiction treatment as effective fundamentally changes how we approach recovery. We don’t shame someone for needing continued treatment for diabetes or adjustments in managing blood pressure. In the same way, recovery should be viewed as a process that requires sustained engagement, accountability, and evidence-based care because addiction treatment is effective.
Misconception #3: People Quit When They’re Ready
According to Dr. Powers, “ [The idea that] People need to get ready to quit is feuded by evidence because success rates are the same. Whether someone is brought in by the police, their significant other, law enforcement, a judge, or their employer, I always say: people just need to show up, even if they don’t necessarily want to be there. When people come to you, and the light comes on behind their eyes, man, it’s a whole different ballgame.”
Truth #3: Recovery Can Happen (even if we don’t want it at first)
When facing various illnesses or diseases, it can sometimes be difficult to focus on healing and getting better because we’re so focused on what’s in front of us. It’s often easier to focus on the sickness and the pain we find ourselves in than on what healing and recovery could look like in the future.
Likewise, when we’re facing addiction, it can be challenging to imagine a life without substances, a life full of meaning and purpose. When caught in the throes of addiction, it’s hard to fathom that life can be different. We get bogged down and often find ourselves in a cycle of isolation and shame.
That is why we need people in our lives who can remind us that something better is possible. We need people who can offer support, guidance, accountability, and the right resources to help us heal. Sometimes we may not have the strength to pursue healing on our own, which is why doctors, therapists, loved ones, and in some cases, law officials, play such an important role in supporting us until we’re able to move toward recovery.
Learned From These Misconceptions About Addiction and Ready to Start Your Journey in Recovery?
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Like many diseases, there are a lot of misconceptions about addiction, and we believe in the hope of recovery.
At Positive Recovery Centers, our mission is to experience the joy of helping others flourish in recovery, work, and life. Through Positive Psychology, an evidence-based approach that addresses the mind, body, and spirit, clients are supported through clinical therapies, peer support, life skills training, and mindfulness practices, all designed to empower them to live more intentionally and joyfully in sobriety.
If you would like to learn more about our various addiction treatment programs, we offer a comprehensive menu of treatment options – ranging from Medical Detox to Residential Treatment to Sober Living – that enable us to meet clients where they are and combat addiction at every stage.
Don’t let misconceptions about addiction stop you or your loved one from embarking on the journey toward a sober, meaningful life. Visit our website or call us today at 877-476-2743 to learn more about how we can help you find healing today!