Common Misconceptions of Drug Abuse

Although many probably know someone who has tried some sort of drug; whether it is a legal drug, like tobacco or alcohol or illegal ones like cocaine and heroin. With many different types of drugs, there are also many different misconceptions about drug addiction and drug use among friends, family and other acquaintances. Some of them are perpetually continued by people who claim to be moral authorities. Here are a few of the most common misconceptions:

Drug Addicts Are Evil

Part of the problem with this way of thinking is that it demonizes people. Those people that are addicted to drugs need sympathy and help, not prison sentences and isolation. These people who struggle with substance abuse are probably caring people who have fallen on hard times or are using drugs to cope with some sort of problem or life event. They are definitely not evil and need support just as much as anyone else in the world, if not more.

Recovery Only Starts at One’s Lowest Point

The idea that drug rehab or treatments are necessary after a person hits rock bottom is a bad one. Recovery can happen at any time. Friends and family can help a person see how their drug addiction is affecting more than just the user. Sometimes recovery only begins when a person realizes that their addiction affects much more than themselves. Drug rehab can begin at any time during a person’s addiction or dependency.

Drug Addicts Deserve the Label

The label that society often gives people addicted to drugs is one of the more damaging aspects of drug addiction. By labeling a person as a “drug addict” what society is essentially saying is that the person’s addiction defines them. It paves the way for other misconceptions, like that a person addicted to drugs will never be above their addiction, even if they remain sober after drug rehab.

Seeing the best in everyone is essential for helping those people reach their true potential.

Taylor Larsen is a health writer. Information provided by Miramar Recovery Centers. Taylor writes for Fusion 360, an advertising agency in Utah. Find him on Google+.