There are many things that are misunderstood about opioid addiction. It is impossible to understand the evils of addiction unless you have been an addict yourself. Make yourself more aware by looking out for these 4 myths about the struggles of opioid addiction.

1. Addicts can stop whenever they want.
When someone has gotten to the point of addiction, it is now out of their control. The mind has become hijacked by the disease and they are not thinking for themselves anymore. Even if they want to quit, their bodies have become dependent on the chemical substance. Everyone wishes it was as easy to quit as it sounds.

2. Addiction is the result of personal weakness.
Addiction has been classified as a disease for a long time now. There are many factors that go in to causing someone’s addiction. Although the initial decision to use a substance is your choice, substance abuse will start to affect your brain. When it does, your common sense and sense of judgement goes out the window.

3. If you only use prescribed medication, you won’t develop an addiction.
Our country consumes about 80% of the worldwide opioid supply. Opioids are some of the most addictive and powerful painkillers out there. When they are prescribed, they are prescribed with specific directions. It is when the directions aren’t followed that addiction can start to take over.

4. Treatment and recovery support groups don’t work. Addicts and alcoholics are a hopeless cause.
There are many things that an addict must overcome to quit. Trying to do it alone is close to impossible. Support groups are a great way to get you on the road to recovery. It’s estimated that there are 23.5 million Americans living in long-term recovery from a drug or alcohol disorder. Sharing your story and having the support from peers plagued by the same issues as yourself is more helpful than you realize.

Our Suboxone treatment is specifically dedicated to opiate dependence. If you or someone you know struggle from opioid addiction, let us at Assisted Recovery help you get your life back on track.