5 Dangerous Myths about Alcoholism and Alcohol Recovery

People who struggle with alcohol addiction often feel like they’re the only ones who face these challenges. Many of them feel ashamed and afraid to talk about their problems because of the negative connotations surrounding alcoholism and alcohol recovery.

These misconceptions make it even more difficult for people dealing with an addiction to get help. This is why it’s important to review the myths concerning this type of addiction. Knowing the misconceptions will empower you to make the right choice and seek recovery.

Myth #1 – Alcoholism is a choice

While you can choose to drink, alcoholism is not a choice. This is important to understand because it’s the main difference between someone who drinks and stops and someone who is struggling with alcohol abuse or cravings.

People who are not alcoholics don’t struggle with alcohol dependency. However, an individual with an alcohol dependency has a psychological and/or physical need to consume alcohol. Often, they drink far more frequently than the occasional drink, and they have trouble controlling their consumption.

If you can control your drinking and know when enough is enough, then you’re not an alcoholic. But if you drink excessively or feel a need to consume alcohol, then you might have a problem. Howver, tt’s essential to be honest with yourself about your alcohol consumption and to understand what’s normal for you and what isn’t.

Myth #2 Recovery is just around the corner at alcohol treatment centers

Some people believe that enrolling in one of the alcohol treatment centers will help them realize an immediate recovery. However, this misconception leads to a feeling of defeat – one where a person feels like they’re never going to get better. In some cases, they may decide they’re not strong or well enough to get sober.

Realistically, recovery does not have a set time frame. It will happen when it happens – everyone is different. When you go down this path, it involves a lifetime journey.

Myth #3 – Counseling isn’t necessary for recovery

Counseling is one of the best effective ways to deal with alcohol addiction. It’s a collaborative approach where you work with a therapist to identify your problems and create solutions for them.

Counseling may include one-on-one therapy, group therapy, and/or a 12-step program. It’s important to understand that not all counselors are the same. Therefore, it’s a good idea to ask questions about the counselor’s approach and how they plan to help you achieve sobriety.

Myth #4 – Sobriety is the same as recovery

Recovery and sobriety are not the same thing. Even if you’re sober, you’re susceptible to a relapse. This relapse may be sparked from a condition, during sobriety, known as a dry drunk syndrome. Alcoholic Anonymous defines this condition as an issue that emerges when someone has not dealt with the triggers that caused their addiction in the first place.

Therefore, sobriety involves a long process – one where both medical intervention and support are necessary during rehab and thereafter. Also, called white-knucking, dry drunk syndrome causes a person to still crave alcohol, even if they’re not drinking it. That’s why it’s vital, during rehab, to deal with the underlying issues as well.

Myth #5 – Alcoholism is a weakness

Alcoholism is a chronic illness, not a human frailty. Therefore, alcoholism is a disease, just like diabetes. You’ll need to manage your condition the rest of your life.

Final Few Words

You just don’t stop drinking and resume living a normal routine. You need to go through a healing process and learn how to live a sober life. Going through rehab then is one of the most positive steps you can make.