The truth is, you probably believe a lot of false things about drug use. Maybe you’ve even convinced yourself that some of these ideas are true, when in fact they are nothing but myths. If you’re ready to move forward in your recovery, you need to understand that you can’t change other people’s behavior. Instead, you need to change your own perceptions and beliefs about drug use. Redirecting your own thoughts will make you a better friend, family member, and coworker. Read on to learn six common beliefs about drug use that you should stop believing.
1. Someone who uses drugs is weak
The truth is, many people who use drugs are weak because they have been judged to be weak. Someone who uses drugs may be weak if they didn’t have the courage to be honest with others about their drug use. Someone who uses drugs may be weak if they are afraid to be honest with themselves. Someone who uses drugs may be weak if they believe that they are bad for using drugs.
Someone who uses drugs may be weak because they lack the strength to resist peer pressure. Someone who uses drugs may be weak because they have been taught to feel ashamed for doing drugs or because they have been told that they are bad for doing drugs. The truth is that addiction can affect anyone, regardless of strengths and weaknesses.
2. People who use drugs are irresponsible
The truth is, most people who use drugs are not irresponsible. They may have a limited or incorrect understanding of the consequences of drug use, but most people who use drugs are trying to do the right thing. People who use drugs may be irresponsible if they don’t respect the rights of others. Someone who uses drugs may be irresponsible if they sleep all day, avoid responsibilities at home and work, drive while impaired, or use drugs in front of minor children.
Someone who uses drugs may be irresponsible if they consistently choose to use drugs in spite of the consequences, or if they choose to use drugs despite the consequences but refuse to take responsibility for their actions. However, addiction changes behavior and becomes the user’s top priority. Lack of responsibility is a symptom of addiction, not the cause of it.
3. Addicts will always need drugs
Many addicts have difficulty in quitting drug use as a result of their addiction. But some people who use drugs can and do recover. However, there is no “right” amount of drug use that is “good enough” for an addict to be considered “successful.”
Some addicts can use drugs just long enough to get “hooked” and then stop. Other addicts can use drugs just long enough to get “under the influence” and then stop. Some addicts can use drugs just long enough to get their “fix” and then stop. There is no “normal” amount of drug use that “everyone” is capable of maintaining. Regardless of the level of addiction, recovery is always possible with the right support and the will to change.
4. Cocaine makes you smart
The truth is, there is no scientific evidence that supports this belief. In fact, cocaine is actually bad for your brain. While some people may experience a temporary “high” from using cocaine, the high is followed by a very low state of brain function. This low brain function may last for several hours after using cocaine. Therefore, if someone is using cocaine, they may be unable to perform tasks that require sustained mental activity. But, people who use cocaine do not become smarter.
5. Alcohol is just for parties
The truth is, the majority of people who use alcohol will not “abuse” the substance. Many people who use alcohol will drink just enough to get a “buzz” or to help them socialize. Others will drink just enough to feel “normal” on the day after using alcohol.
These social drinkers are actually responsible for the vast majority of alcohol consumption. And, the majority of people who use alcohol will not have a problem with the substance. Alcoholism, on the other hand, is an active addiction to alcohol in which an individual requires it to function, with tolerance increasingly growing. Without alcohol, withdrawal symptoms will appear.
6. People who use drugs are looking for trouble
The truth is, the vast majority of people who use drugs are not looking for trouble. They are trying to have a normal, happy life. They may or may not have problems at home, school, work, or with their friends. But, they do not deserve to be harassed or treated disrespectfully because they use drugs.
Conclusion
We all have myths that we believe about drug use, but the truth is, most aren’t true. In fact, the majority of people who use drugs aren’t looking for trouble, are responsible, and choose to use drugs due to larger issues such as past trauma.
These myths can cause a lot of unnecessary friction and drama in our lives, so it’s important to learn how to redirect your own perceptions and beliefs about drug use. Now that you know the six common beliefs about drug use that you should stop believing, it’s time to start changing your thoughts today!
Asheville Recovery Center Can Help
Fortunately, there are ways to prevent substance abuse and help those who are already struggling. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, it is important to get treatment. At Asheville Recovery Center treatment specialists utilize a 12-step program and practice holistic rehabilitation.
Services at the center include:
Partial Hospitalization Program – At Asheville Recovery Center we offer a partial hospitalization program for clients who need post-residential treatment as well as for clients who need primary treatment but are unable to enroll in inpatient programs. Our PHP track offers a variety of therapeutic services and benefits to individuals in early recovery from substance addiction.
Outpatient Rehabilitation – During intensive outpatient treatment (IOP), clients live at home or in a sober living residence while completing an addiction treatment program. IOP is a place where clients can process their experiences in twelve-step fellowships and support one another in those individual journeys.
Addiction is difficult to overcome alone. If you feel that you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, our specialists are on standby and ready to help. Call and speak with an addiction expert today.
