7 Myths About Addiction
Most of us have our own ideas or perceptions of what an addict looks like. These misunderstandings and myths about addiction can make it harder for addicts to seek treatment and return to a normal life.

Myths about Drugs, Addiction and Recovery
You may have heard things like ‘Once an addict, always an addict’ or ‘it’s the addiction gene’. Such myths that were created to scare children away from drugs didn’t serve their purpose but made it even more difficult for addicts to seek treatment and bring their life back on the right track.

‘Addiction Gene’ makes one an Addict
There is no single gene, nor a set of genes that ascertain whether or not a person will become an addict. There is no such thing as ‘addiction gene’!

Addiction is for Life
‘Once an addict, always an addict’ is one of the most prevalent addiction myths. According to the National Institute on Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse, 75% of alcoholics recover without treatment. People can put the past behind them and lead normal lives.

Addicts are Psychopaths
Addicts are taken for mad, maniacal, lunatic and psychotic persons. They are discriminated on the basis of their addiction. But, they are never considered as someone who struggles from drug dependence on a daily basis.

Addiction is a Choice
It is not as simple as exercising enough willpower. It is not a choice but a result of environmental factors such as family life, upbringing and peer influences.

You can’t get Addicted to Prescription Drugs
If it’s a prescription, it is considered safe. Nobody believes that something your doctor prescribes can be addictive too. Most medications are perfectly safe if taken in the prescribed dosage, but their prolonged use can be dangerous.

Addicts can’t do any Good to Society
What is your idea of an addict? Most people believe that an addict is someone who is involved in criminal behaviours, and has a host of interpersonal issues. They are not considered a part of society. However, there are many addicts who provide for their families and are involved in family activities without appearing to be an addict.

You’re not an Addict if you have a Stable Job and Family Life
Anyone can have a drug or alcohol problem. It doesn’t matter whether you have a good job or a loving family. Holding down a job does not always suggest that you’re addicted.
(Images:Getty)
All possible measures have been taken to ensure accuracy, reliability, timeliness and authenticity of the information; however Onlymyhealth.com does not take any liability for the same. Using any information provided by the website is solely at the viewers’ discretion. In case of any medical exigencies/ persistent health issues, we advise you to seek a qualified medical practitioner before putting to use any advice/tips given by our team or any third party in form of answers/comments on the above mentioned website.