Addiction Recovery Myths Debunked, Part 1

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For those suffering from them, addiction recovery myths are very challenging. Because every case of addiction is different, only the individual struggling can truly take responsibility for reversing the cycle. At Acqua Recovery, we are here to help. Unfortunately, we have heard a number of harmful myths and misconceptions in this world over the years. Here is part one of a two-part blog series. This is where we will list these myths and then spend some time debunking them.

Relapse is Normal

The first and perhaps most common addiction recovery myth is relapse is a normal, expected part of the process. While relapse is indeed something that happens to some in recovery, expecting it as part of the process sets a dangerous precedent for those going through recovery. It may encourage self-defeating or harmful behaviors. Also, it can lead to family members and other caregivers simply waiting for the inevitable relapse instead of working to help prevent it.

Relapse Means Failure

On the flip side, it is important for both those in recovery and caregivers to remember relapsing is not a failure. This only increases the shame and guilt addiction brings. Also, it can make some feel there is no point in continuing to try again. Hopelessness is the worst enemy of recovery, and this myth only increases it.

Must Hit Rock Bottom

This is a common myth spread by movies and television. It is the myth that only once someone with an addiction has reached an often-dangerous “rock bottom” point can they admit they have a problem and work toward recovery. While again this may be true in some select cases, applying it so broadly to all cases is dangerous and wrong. In reality, most people with an addiction have a breaking point. But it is where the breaking point comes that is important. For some, sadly, this breaking point is death. For others, it is far earlier than any rock bottom point. Regardless of where your breaking point is, it is important to get the help that you need before it is too late.

There is Only One Way

In some cases, we see patients reluctant to try a method or aspect of our addiction recovery program because they have never heard of it working. Therefore, they are worried it is not “the right way.” This is a misconception we try to remove. Every road to recovery is different. While there will indeed be certain universal elements consistent among everyone, what works for one person might not work for another. Recovery is a long and challenging road, but living a healthy and clean life after rehab is worth it. Do not let misconceptions keep you from getting the help that you or your loved one needs. Millions of people have found success in their recovery and you can too. For more on debunking common addiction recovery myths, or to learn about how our residential addiction treatment centers can help, speak to the addiction treatment staff at Acqua Recovery today at 866.830.4628.

Addiction Recovery Myths Debunked, Part 1

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Dr. Daniel Pickrell

Dr. Daniel Pickrell
Medical Reviewer

Dr. Pickrell is a board-certified psychiatrist with interests in addiction and psychiatry. He strives to identify the underlying cause of substance use. His understanding of addiction as the overlapping symptoms of biopsychosocial development is the foundation to his care model. He is committed to helping both patients and families understand that addiction is a treatable medical illness. He has been involved in the treatment of addiction for the last 17 years and completed his residency training at the University of Utah.

By: Acqua Recovery

Posted Date: Jan 31, 2023

Updated Date: Nov 5, 2024

For those suffering from them, addiction recovery myths are very challenging. Because every case of addiction is different, only the individual struggling can truly take responsibility for reversing the cycle. At Acqua Recovery, we are here to help. Unfortunately, we have heard a number of harmful myths and misconceptions in this world over the years. Here is part one of a two-part blog series. This is where we will list these myths and then spend some time debunking them.

Relapse is Normal

The first and perhaps most common addiction recovery myth is relapse is a normal, expected part of the process. While relapse is indeed something that happens to some in recovery, expecting it as part of the process sets a dangerous precedent for those going through recovery. It may encourage self-defeating or harmful behaviors. Also, it can lead to family members and other caregivers simply waiting for the inevitable relapse instead of working to help prevent it.

Relapse Means Failure

On the flip side, it is important for both those in recovery and caregivers to remember relapsing is not a failure. This only increases the shame and guilt addiction brings. Also, it can make some feel there is no point in continuing to try again. Hopelessness is the worst enemy of recovery, and this myth only increases it.

Must Hit Rock Bottom

This is a common myth spread by movies and television. It is the myth that only once someone with an addiction has reached an often-dangerous “rock bottom” point can they admit they have a problem and work toward recovery. While again this may be true in some select cases, applying it so broadly to all cases is dangerous and wrong. In reality, most people with an addiction have a breaking point. But it is where the breaking point comes that is important. For some, sadly, this breaking point is death. For others, it is far earlier than any rock bottom point. Regardless of where your breaking point is, it is important to get the help that you need before it is too late.

There is Only One Way

In some cases, we see patients reluctant to try a method or aspect of our addiction recovery program because they have never heard of it working. Therefore, they are worried it is not “the right way.” This is a misconception we try to remove. Every road to recovery is different. While there will indeed be certain universal elements consistent among everyone, what works for one person might not work for another. Recovery is a long and challenging road, but living a healthy and clean life after rehab is worth it. Do not let misconceptions keep you from getting the help that you or your loved one needs. Millions of people have found success in their recovery and you can too. For more on debunking common addiction recovery myths, or to learn about how our residential addiction treatment centers can help, speak to the addiction treatment staff at Acqua Recovery today at 866.830.4628.

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