Mind-altering substances have been around since the early days, and individuals at every age and walk of life may fall prey to the pleasures of intoxication. The substance abuse treatment in North Carolina has found many myths about drugs, including everything from how addictions occur in people to how addiction may come back after treatment. The truth is that addiction is not a new problem for society, but there are always new ways of treatment.

Overcoming Drug Misconceptions

While myths about drugs may say otherwise, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has shown that addiction affects all kinds of people. While some groups develop addictions to certain drugs, our therapists and staff have come to know that each person has their own battle with addiction.

For women, a traumatic history can cause more personal risk factors and stressors. A young woman may develop a problem with alcohol in college, or opioids could be a way to self-medicate from stress. Then, there are more serious problems that may relate to deeper problems. We know that addiction problems for women can stem from sexual trauma and gender-related issues.

Many treatment centers focus on a one-size-fits-all program, which never works. Instead, our therapists use a combination of different therapies and activities designed to cater to your needs and learning style.

What are the common drug misconceptions? Here are a few we often debunk for our clients.

Myth 1: Staying addicted is a choice.

Studies reported in the “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders” have debunked one of these myths about drugs. They found that substance abuse disorders like alcoholism or drug addiction show sufferers have a “lack” of choice. Those addicted struggle with compulsion problems and an underlying need to use drugs or alcohol. They do so even when they know it’s bad for their health.

This compulsion may stem from chemical imbalances in the brain, or it could be related to mental health issues that started when you were young. A family history of addiction could mean that the person is more susceptible to substance abuse problems.

Myth 2: Addiction should be gone for good after treatment.

While we always strive to help clients kick the habit for good, addiction is not a simple fix. Popular myths about drugs often suggest that addictions always come back once you leave the treatment center, but The Willows has treatment programs to help clients transition into the real world and deal with triggers. It takes time and a variety of methods to figure out what works for each individual. In fact, studies show that addiction takes lifelong management and care to not fall into relapse. In many cases, you have to know the psychological triggers and stressors that cause you to go into a compulsive abusive process.

Myth 3: Prescription drugs are not as dangerous as illicit drugs.

Common drug misconceptions include types of drugs that doctors suggest to help with anxiety, depression, and pain. The doctor’s word is the doctor’s word, right? Many studies on opioids, stimulants, and benzodiazepines have found that they are similar and just as powerful as their street drug counterparts. They require equally intensive types of therapy. Statistics have also shown a recent increase in fatal overdoses due to prescription drugs.

Finally, one thing about addiction treatment is that it’s not meant to scare you or take anything away from you. Our programs intend to help women get off a self-destructive path so that they can have normal, healthy lives.

Why Choose the Willows Red Oak Recovery

For one, we are redefining the clinical experience and overcoming myths about drugs. Our experts have been helping our clients kick their bad habits for many years. We are a top substance abuse treatment center in North Carolina that specifically and exclusively helps women. Individuals aged 18 to 30 primarily comprise our population.

Our services include:

• Dual diagnosis
• Experiential therapy – Outdoor activities: hiking, rope courses, horseback riding, and gardening
• Trauma therapy services
• Service work
• Acupuncture
• Meditation & yoga
• 25 clinical hours a week with a therapist

We place a strong focus on our client’s mental health, treating various types of trauma, and helping with eating disorder recovery. All of these can make it more difficult to heal from substance abuse.

The best part about The Willows at Red Oak Recovery is the location. On our peaceful old horse farm, you can work with us on your treatment, learn the coping skills to get through triggers and shift your life towards a positive path.

The Top Trauma-Based Clinical Care for Women in North Carolina

How can we help you on your road to recovery? Counselors at our substance abuse treatment in North Carolina are standing by to get you through this difficult time. Call 855.773.0614 to get help now.