Words Matter: Breaking the Myths of Addictions

Written by Laura Laidlaw

Addiction impacts a wide range of individuals (10-15 percent of the population).
Substance use requires evaluation of a person through a holistic lens, accounting for the combination of biological, genetic, psychological, behavioral, and development of addiction. Trying to comprehensively define addiction can be complex and difficult to conclude. 

In this blog, we will explore the common myths surrounding addiction and why it's crucial to challenge these misconceptions. Addiction is often misunderstood, with many false beliefs shaping how society views and responds to it. By debunking these myths, we can foster a more compassionate, informed approach to addiction, encouraging healthier attitudes toward those affected. Understanding the truth helps break down stigma, promotes better treatment options, and supports the journey to recovery for individuals and their families. Let's dive into why rethinking these myths is essential for creating lasting change.

Myth: A relapse means the treatment has failed
I think it is better to use terms such as “reoccurrence”, rather than a lapse or relapse. The terms lapse and relapse can carry the negative connotation of failure and may induce feelings of shame and guilt. It’s important to acknowledge this is a normal part of recovery. Validating and being compassionate is always important.

Myth: Addiction is a choice
This is not true and can minimize people’s experiences. People do not wake up and simply say yes, or no. The idea that addiction is a choice oversimplifies a complex issue and minimizes people’s experiences. Addiction is not a conscious decision; it’s a chronic disease that alters the brain's chemistry. While someone may initially use substances to cope, addiction changes brain function, creating powerful cravings that are hard to resist. It’s not about willpower but about a medical condition that requires understanding, support, and treatment. Recognizing this helps reduce stigma and promotes compassionate care for those affected.

Myth: Addiction always involves drugs or alcohol
Addiction can take many different forms. In the therapy world we call these “process addictions”. Behavioral addictions such as gambling, food, video gaming, shopping, and internet use are all common. These addictions activate the brain’s reward system in similar ways, leading to compulsive behaviors that can disrupt daily life.

Myth: You must treat the substance use first
Exploring underlying factors contributing to the substance use (trauma, depression, anxiety, co-occurring illnesses) is important to get to the deep-rooted issues. For example, it can be common for clients who have PTSD and a substance abuse disorder, to only receive treatment for the substance abuse. Substance abuse is a form of self-medicating as a coping mechanism to the presenting PTSD symptoms.

Myth: “The cookie cutter treatment approach”
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment as the recovery journey is as unique as the individual. Remember we all have different fingerprints.

Myth: Online meetings are always focused on the 12 steps
In today’s world, online meetings have grown universally, and offer a wide range of support, and topics. Although 12 steps approach are still used, many other approaches are offered such as SMART recovery meetings.

It might take a few visits until one feels a connection to a group in a meeting setting. But the important part is connecting to others with a shared experience, and having an opportunity for discussion of one’s experiences, which can promote a sense of connectedness, and facilitate the goal of increasing self-awareness, resiliency, acceptance, self-esteem, validation, and most importantly, a sense of belonging.

Myth: Inpatient treatment is needed for success
Inpatient treatment programs can be the beginning of a lifelong recovery journey for many. However, it is equally important to engage in aftercare. This can be continued with outpatient therapy, or other support groups to help maintain sobriety.

Many individuals initially find success outside of inpatient treatment centers. This can include connecting with a therapist who specializes in addiction and co- occurring illnesses, reaching out to a doctor, nurse, and support groups (finding a sponsor can also be helpful).

Tips for family and friends of a loved one:
- Kindness
- Love
- Openness
- Validate
- Connect
- The Three P’s-Patience, Perseverance, and Persistence.

Addiction is one of the most misunderstood, complex topics in our society. Unfortunately, myths continue to fuel stigma and shame, often deterring individual's from seeking help. By shedding light to these myths, we can nurture greater compassion, uphold awareness, create more accessible resources, and encourage people that it is safe, and always ok, to seek help.