Alcohol addiction is surrounded by many myths and misconceptions. These often add to the stigma and can impact a person’s decision to seek help. People may be misguided as to what alcoholism is and how it is treated. By taking a closer look at these myths and becoming more educated about alcohol use and addiction, people can make more informed decisions and become proactive in increasing awareness and getting treatment.
- Alcoholism mainly affects those who are poor or uneducated.
Addiction does not discriminate. It affects those in all social classes and professions. Just because a person does not have a college education or is living on a low income does not necessarily mean that they will develop issues with alcohol. In fact, there are many doctors, lawyers, and other well-to-do people who struggle with alcoholism. They may use it as way of de-stressing, coping with pressure, or dealing with other challenges.
- Alcoholics are often unemployed.
There are plenty of people facing alcohol addiction who are able to hold down a steady job. This may be one way that they mask their addiction and play it off as something less serious. Even though they are fairly high functioning does not mean that the alcohol does not impact their health and job performance, however.
- People who drink beer aren’t alcoholics.
Although beer may not contain the same type or amount of alcohol as stronger liquor, it can still lead to addiction. Beer may have the perception of being more of a social beverage and more widely accepted than liquor, but over time and in greater quantities, it can have a negative impact. Oftentimes people think of alcoholics as people drinking cheap liquor, but beer (and other alcoholic beverages) can produce similar effects.
- Alcoholics are aggressive and mean.
While some people do become more aggressive and upset when they drink, this is not true for everyone. Some people remain pleasant to be around and this is one way that they hide their addiction. They continue to hold down a job, care for their family, and are respected by colleagues. Alcohol affects people in different ways.
- If a person really wanted to stop drinking they could.
Addiction is not a matter of willpower. Initial use may have been a matter of choice, but once it turns into addiction, it changes the way the brain works and just wanting to stop is not enough. Recovery requires professional treatment and ongoing support. The person learns strategies to help them deal with temptation, cravings, and challenging situations. They must change their way of thinking and embrace new routines to prevent relapse.
There is not one blanket solution for treating those with alcohol addiction, but alcoholism is a condition that can be effectively managed. With the right techniques and strategies, people can remain substance-free and make positive changes in their life to support recovery. Relapse does not mean failure and just because one program did not work does not mean that there is no hope. Finding the right alcohol treatment center to meet their needs can make a difference.
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcoholism or addiction and are ready to change your life for the better, contact Chapters Capistrano today. With diverse approaches to treatment, personalized care, comprehensive services, and ongoing support, you can start a new chapter in your life and embrace a substance-free lifestyle.
