Myths and Facts about Substance Abuse
Everyone has an opinion about substance abuse – be it drug addiction or alcoholism. But unless an individual has lived through a substance abuse problem it is hard to understand the scope and damaging effects the problem can bring about. Instead, those who do not know what substance abuse is really all about, tend to fill that knowledge void with untruth, rumor and conjecture about the issue. What follows are some of the most common myths about substance abuse, and the real facts everyone should know instead.
Myths and facts about substance abuse
Myth: Substance abuse and addiction are actually the same thing.
Fact: Though the terms "abuse" and "addiction" are often confused for one another, they are not the same thing. Substance abuse generally refers to those individuals who continue to use drugs or alcohol even though they understand that they are harmful. An individual who has a drug addiction has developed a physical, chemical dependence on them. Another difference is that those who at the substance abuse stage are likely to still be experience the euphoric or depressive effects of the substance more or less as they were when they started taking it. An addicted individual on the other hand, develops a tolerance to the drug, and now requires more and more of the substance to achieve that original "high" (if indeed it can be recreated at all).
Myth: People who can't stop using drugs are weak or immoral
Fact: Those individuals who become dependent or drugs or alcohol are victims of a real illness. Most of those who struggle with the substances and become addicted would quit if they could. It is not a question of morality, but instead a matter of science. Also, there is a genetic link to substance abuse and addiction that has been proven time and again.
Myth: People can quit using drugs any time they want
Fact: When substance abuse turns into drug addiction it takes a powerful hold over the mind and body of the individual. Even the strongest willed individuals have difficulty quitting drugs on their own. Only through the help of drug rehab programs and addiction professionals can they get the help they need.
Myth: Substance abuse is only a problem in a lower income or socio-economic layers of society
Fact: Substance abuse is prevalent throughout almost every rung of our societies. And while certain genders, age group or socio-economic groups may experience higher levels of substance abuse than others, that should not take away from the fact that this is a societal issue – which given the number young children and teenagers prone to substance abuse – should concern each and every person in the county.
Michael's House is a residential drug rehab facility that helps individuals who have become entangled in substance abuse or addiction get their lives straightened out. Through a series of innovative alcohol and drug rehab programs designed to enrich the mind and spirit of the individual, Michael's House helps change lives for the better. Contact Michael's House today for more information.
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