- Learn the facts about rehab so that common misconceptions and myths about treatment can't hold you back.
Millions of people struggle with crippling addiction. If you are one of them and you have fully acknowledged that you have a problem, you will probably want to go into rehab. Unfortunately, there are several misconceptions surrounding rehab. It’s important to know about them. Here are five myths about rehab that have been busted.
Myth: You Can Detox at Home
One of the biggest rehab myths is that you can go through detox at home. However, you cannot do this successfully. You must undergo detox at a reputable drug rehabilitation facility with qualified medical staff on hand. Often, detox includes medically-managed withdrawal, which involves the use of certain medications. Side effects from detox can be unpleasant and may require medical help that you cannot get when you’re home.
Myth: No One Gets Clean
Many people think undergoing rehab won’t help because “no one gets clean.” This isn’t true. People end up overcoming their substance abuse disorder through both inpatient and outpatient rehab, feel better and live better lives overall. While some people do fall off the wagon and succumb to their addictions again, others do not and continue to successfully live a clean lifestyle.
Myth: I’ll Get Fired if I Go to Rehab
Unfortunately, some people believe if they go to rehab, they’ll get fired from their job. While you may require time off from work to undergo the entire process, you cannot legally be fired as substance abuse disorder falls under the Americans with Disabilities Act or ADA. Some employers even offer Employee Assistance Programs, which include services like addiction treatment for employees who need it.
Myth: Rehab Will Cure Addiction
A very common myth is that if you have a drug or alcohol addiction — or any other type of addiction — and you go to rehab, you will be cured of that addiction. In reality, you are never actually cured. Addiction is a disease that can be curbed, but not cured. It is a chronic condition that always has a risk of being reawakened due to some type of influencing factor. In some cases, your genetics may even determine addiction. Rehab can help you to move past your addiction and stop using the substance in question, but it also takes a lot more work on your part to fight against a relapse. Continuous counseling, for instance, can greatly help.
Myth: Rehab Isn’t Covered by Insurance
Many people wrongfully believe that rehab isn’t covered by insurance or claim that they cannot afford it. However, many insurance policies now include drug and alcohol rehabilitation as something that is covered. Even if your particular insurance policy doesn’t cover rehab, you can work with a facility that will help you find a payment plan that works for you.
There are other options available to you for paying for rehab. You can use a medical credit card, apply for a personal loan through your bank or credit union or even apply for a medical loan so you can pay for your rehab. You might even want to consider the option of crowdfunding to pay or turn toward family members who might be able to help you.
Attending rehab can help you to move past your addiction and reclaim your life. If you need help, rehab is the first place to start.