How many times have you witnessed a drunk person in public or heard a news story about heroin addiction? Then, in the back of your mind, you thought about how disgraceful that behavior is. Even though you would not like to admit it, you are naturally programmed to despise addictive behavior, as each and every one of us has been programmed. Considering that drugs and alcohol belong to a less than tasteful part of society, we are naturally inclined to be disgusted by these substances, but we cannot allow ourselves to hate the poor people who fall victim to them. Most drug addicts and alcoholics are normal people who have taken a wrong path in life, but society still holds stigmas about how treatment and confessions are viewed. Let’s take a closer look and find out more information.
Rubbing Salt in the Wound
In many cases, addicts will not make an attempt to get lifesaving help because (in actuality) they are embarrassed to admit they have a problem to begin with. In some instances, these men and women are so ashamed of their sickness and bad behavior that they won’t even talk to their closest friend or family members. On the flip side, teetotalers and recovering addicts might stigmatize addiction (without even realizing what they are doing) by claiming a drug addict or alcoholic has no self-control and has made a choice to behave badly.
Rocky Road to Recovery
Simply put, addiction is a sickness people will carry with them for the rest of their lives. There is no cure for addiction and no suppressant for addiction. By sending a message of loathing and deprecation towards these men and women, people are only making the path to full recovery rockier. For example, many fully recovered addicts (many of whom are highly intelligent people) are denied jobs because of their past problems.
Seeking Treatment for Drug Addiction or Alcoholism
Whether you are an addict or not, you have most likely witnessed society’s insensitivity toward drug addicts and alcoholics and may have even let some of these thoughts pass through your mind. We have been programmed to think negatively about these poor men and women for so long that showing cruelty to them can sometimes be second nature. While bad behavior should never be condoned, we have to remember that some of these people are willing to change. However, you must keep in mind that anyone can change at any time, as long as they consciously make an effort.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug addiction or alcoholism or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of alcohol withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.