The 10 Most Damaging Myths About Alcoholism

1MYTH

The Only Way to Get Better is to Hit “Rock Bottom”

FACT

While some alcoholics do lose everything before they decide to seek treatment, people should and do seek help before they reach this point.

2MYTH

Drinking Culture is Harmless

FACT

Binge drinking is viewed as a harmless rite of passage during. This attitude toward alcohol consumption is dangerous and it’s another way people with dependency issues rationalize their habits.

3MYTH

“You have a job, you’re not an alcoholic!”

FACT

Alcoholism is a disease that spans all socioeconomic ranks; anyone can find themselves in the grips of addiction.

4MYTH

Willpower Alone Can Stop an Addiction

FACT

There are people who are able to stop drinking cold turkey, but they are the exception not the rule. Addiction is not a switch you can turn on and off at will.

5MYTH

Controlled Drinking is Possible

FACT

Alcoholics who try to drink socially or have “just one” drink are usually playing with fire. Having a strong sober support network you can call on is key to a successful recovery.

6MYTH

Everything will be Perfect Once You Stop Drinking

FACT

Early sobriety can be tough because all those emotions you tried to avoid by drinking can come back to the surface. But dealing with those feelings and tackling the “why” of your alcoholism is the only way to get on a healthy recovery path.

7MYTH

Treatment is the Magic Cure

FACT

While in treatment, alcoholics have the opportunity to develop healthy coping mechanisms and network with others seeking sobriety. But treatment programs aren’t a one-stop shop to fix alcoholism. Alcoholism is a chronic disease and maintaining sobriety will be a lifelong journey.

8MYTH

Alcoholics Must go to AA

FACT

Alcoholics Anonymous can be very helpful for people fighting alcoholism. But the recovery community is not limited to one way of doing things. Maintaining sobriety and establishing a fulfilling life outside of addiction is a unique journey for everyone.

9MYTH

Sobriety is Boring

FACT

The vibrancy and support that can be found in the recovery community is unlike any other. Clearing your mind of the fog of your addiction opens it up to so much more. Now is the time to discover or regain beloved hobbies and restore meaningful relationships.

10MYTH

Getting Sober is Impossible

FACT

Some people may feel like they’re too far gone in their disease to get help. This is simply NOT true. At any age or stage in your alcoholism, you can successfully seek sobriety.

Read more about the vibrant recovery community at

www.soberlink.com