When it comes to addiction recovery, it’s unfortunate that the internet is filled with misconceptions and myths denigrating individuals with substance use disorders. Misconceptions such as “You can quit if you want to bad enough” or “A lack of willpower causes addiction” often lead people to feel ashamed or embarrassed about asking for help, further exacerbating their addiction. During this National Recovery Month, we’ll explore five common myths about addiction treatment and recovery, alongside the facts that dispel them. Knowing these truths is essential for sustaining recovery after completing treatment.

Misconception 1: Relapse Is a Sign of Weakness

Fact: Relapse is an addiction characteristic. It is caused by substance-related brain changes and not the result of mental weakness. Prolonged substance use or abuse leads to neurochemical changes, which affect the way a person thinks and behaves. When the substance is present, the brain releases a flood of feel-good hormones called endorphins. This induces a euphoric feeling. In contrast, when it is absent, one may experience discomfort and even pain. These responses are all orchestrated by the brain’s extended amygdala, which triggers intense cravings until the substance is once again present. These cravings often lead individuals with substance use disorder to relapse, making relapse a common characteristic of the disorder. However, effective treatments are available that can reduce the likelihood of relapse.

Misconception 2: You’re On Your Own After Completing Treatment

Fact: Aftercare and continual care programs are available for anyone needing assistance reaching their recovery goals post-treatment. Aftercare recovery groups such as 12-step or Alcoholics Anonymous provide peer support to individuals throughout their recovery journey, especially after leaving a traditional recovery program. Others enter outpatient programs like these to address ongoing behavioral health issues with life skills development, nutrition classes, and one-on-one therapy. Together, these programs help them avoid relapsing. Most people with an addiction or substance use disorder will require ongoing care after rehab to achieve their sobriety goals. This is crucial because about 70% of individuals relapse within the first year of leaving treatment. Additionally, feeling unsupported by family and friends often leads people to seek out aftercare programs for recovery and relapse prevention. Studies have demonstrated that enrolling in a continuing care program after rehab is one of the most effective ways to prevent relapses and drug overdoses.

Misconception 3: Addiction Treatment Is Unaffordable

Fact: Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, most major insurance plans cover substance use disorder and addiction treatment with little to no out-of-pocket costs. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) allows individuals with Medicaid-based insurance plans or those offered under the Health Insurance Exchange to receive addiction treatment as an essential covered benefit. This benefit is also provided with no dollar limit and no exclusion based on preexisting mental or physical health conditions. Anyone with a diagnosed substance use disorder (SUD) has a right under the ACA to enroll in a residential treatment or detox program. This includes holistic programs such as art, yoga, music, or medication-assisted therapy. They also have a right to receive care at an inpatient, outpatient, intensive outpatient, or day treatment (or partial hospitalization) level, so long as it is deemed medically necessary.

Misconception 4: Detox Is the Only Way You Can Recover

Fact: Detox is often the first step in recovery but isn’t the only step. Detox, or detoxification, is the process of allowing a toxic substance to leave the body through abstinence or by incorporating certain medications under supervision. When it comes to addiction recovery, detox is an essential first step; it allows the person to enter addiction treatment with a clear mind and without the intense cravings or discomfort caused by withdrawal. This makes it easier for them to concentrate on treatment objectives while reducing their risk of relapsing. Although some people get better after detox and maintain the ability to address substance abuse on their own, others need ongoing treatment. They may receive this treatment during the medical detox process or soon after. The amount of time one must remain in detox before entering the next phase of treatment depends on their treatment goals and addiction severity.

Misconception 5: You Will Lose Your Job If You Enter Treatment

Fact: The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides federal job protection for individuals requiring treatment for substance use disorder. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) entitles employees to take unpaid, job-protected leave for a specific amount of time for medical reasons. Substance use disorder is considered a medical condition under this act. Employees with a substance use disorder may take up to 12 weeks of leave in 12 months to receive treatment without losing their job. To use this benefit, the employer must meet the following requirements:
  • Private employer: Employs 50 or more employees (within 75 miles) for 20 or more consecutive or non-consecutive calendar work weeks.
  • School employer: No special requirements.  FMLA covers all private or public school employers.
  • Government employer: No special requirements. All federal, state, and local government employers are covered.
In some cases, FMLA protections will not supersede pre-established work rules. You could be terminated if your employer has a strict zero-tolerance policy for substance use known at the time of hiring. However, your employer may not take action against you for requesting time off under FMLA if no such rule exists, as SUD and addiction are both considered medical conditions. For more information regarding the Family and Medical Leave Act, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.

Addiction Recovery in Nashville, Tennessee

If you or someone you know has an addiction, there’s no need to feel ashamed. This isn’t a condition caused by a lack of willpower or weakness. Addiction is a powerful condition caused by many changes in the brain that make it difficult to quit. With suitable treatment options, it is possible to recover from addiction, reduce relapses, and live life on your terms — and we’re here to help. Contact Southeast Addiction Center TN 24/7 to learn more about our addiction treatment programs and services today.