There are few poisons around the world that we abuse our bodies more with than alcohol and today alcoholism is a disease suffered by millions of people. In fact, such is the world’s problem with alcohol a total of around 5% of all deaths can be attributed to the substance.
We’re doing all we can to deal with the substance. Alcohol rehabs are common in many parts of the world, with advanced treatments to get people through withdrawal and into recovery. What isn’t helped when it comes to alcohol addiction, however, are the many myths that follow it around. And they can be fatal if taken as gospel.
So what are the main myths around alcohol, and which are the ones that certainly need busting?
Anyone who drinks in excess will become addicted
While anyone can become addicted to alcohol, it doesn’t mean that everyone who drinks alcohol heavily is an alcoholic. There are many different variables that can lead to alcoholism, including genes, surroundings and much more. All the causes are not exactly known at present, with plenty of research from scientists going into that, but people may drink frequently and not be addicted. Whether they should be drinking so heavily is a different story, of course.
People who can “hold their drink” well are at a lower risk of alcoholism
This is one of the craziest and most damaging myths that can really cause health problems for those that believe it. In fact, being able to hold their booze could be an indicator they are an alcoholic as a tolerance has been built up through excessive consumption over time. If you need a sign of alcoholism, that’s it.
Alcoholics only come from deprived areas
Many people believe that addiction is a product of a more deprived environment, with people from poorer areas most likely to suffer. However, that isn’t true. While the stresses and anxieties of life in such an area may lead to alcoholism, the stress of any environment can have that effect too.
Confrontation and shaming will push an alcoholic to get treatment
While alienating a person may be the motivating factor in them seeking treatment, studies have shown that actually treating a person suffering from alcohol addiction with compassion and empathy is a much more effective approach than being confrontational.
People need support and love to make what is a big step and by doing that you can help them get back on the right path.