Myths vs Realities: Addiction Recovery

Deciding to enter an addiction recovery program is a huge step for people living with opioid or alcohol abuse. It's a way to finally get clean and sober to live a healthier and happier life – but how do you know what to believe about treatment?

There are a lot of myths circulating about addiction recovery that can spook you, but most aren't true. At the Victory Treatment Program in Knoxville, Tennessee, Stacey Maltman, FNP-BC, offers addiction recovery programs, support groups, and outpatient detox for recovery.

Stacey is a passionate provider who is there for each patient through every step of their addiction recovery journey. She provides the facts and resources to make the transition easy.

Understanding addiction recovery

Drug and alcohol addiction are dangerous conditions where your body craves and requires them to function. Addiction affects every aspect of your life, including school, work, and relationships.

Addiction recovery is the point where you seek help for addictive behaviors. It involves rehabilitation programs to get you through withdrawal and the ups and downs of addiction.

The recovery process is a lifelong commitment to a healthier lifestyle without alcohol or drugs. It involves support groups, medications, and therapy to help you avoid situations that may trigger you to use them again.

Myths related to recovery

Before entering addiction recovery, it's essential to understand the process and how it works. However, plenty of myths are out there that aren't true. The following are common myths associated with recovery:

I should quit cold turkey

Quitting cold turkey is when you attempt to “get off” drugs or alcohol on your own at home, without medical supervision. Quitting this way is extremely dangerous and could have potentially deadly consequences.

Getting off substances typically causes withdrawal symptoms that can be so unbearable that you seek out drugs or alcohol to eliminate them. The brain also becomes chemically dependent on these substances, and when you attempt to quit without medications, the side effects are severe.

I only require detox treatment

Detox is the process of the body eliminating all the alcohol and drugs, but that's only the beginning of the process. Withdrawal symptoms typically occur during the detox process, which can be challenging.

But after the detox process, the real work begins. You'll meet with a therapist to determine why you became addicted in the first place. Support groups and continued therapy are also critical components of the recovery process.

I don't need treatment for withdrawal

Withdrawal is the process of the body coming off drugs and alcohol. Addiction causes the brain to become chemically dependent on these substances, which leads to withdrawal when you take them away.

Going through withdrawal alone is very serious and often requires medical supervision and treatment. Without it, the symptoms can lead to serious complications, including seizures and even death.

I won't have fun when I'm sober

Some people fear their life after recovery because they can't imagine it without using substances. Many people associate drugs and alcohol with having fun.

However, sober life can be gratifying and enjoyable, especially after the recovery process. It's best to avoid situations or people that could push you back into addictive behaviors, but in time, you'll learn tips and tricks to deal with these situations.

I am a prisoner of treatment

Many people worry that they don't have freedom during the recovery process. They may feel like they're a prisoner during inpatient or even outpatient detox programs – but that's not true.

Detox programs aren't one-size-fits-all, and we customize treatments to fit your lifestyle. Depending on your specific goals and needs, you can choose an inpatient or an outpatient program.

After recovery, I'm entirely on my own

One myth is that once the recovery process ends, you'll be completely alone – but there's nothing further from the truth. We are with you through every step of the process, even when you're completely sober.

The recovery process continues throughout your life with support groups and therapy. You may feel like you'll slip even after years of sobriety, which is why it's crucial to stick with us and support groups while surrounding yourself with supportive friends and family.

Call the Victory Treatment Program today to schedule an appointment for addiction recovery. You can also visit our website to learn more.