Debunking 7 Myths About Alcoholism

February 7, 2021

Harmony Place Team

Alcoholism can be crippling and can lead to financial, mental, and physical ruin. Alcohol use disorder continues to consume the lives of millions of Americans every year. Alcoholism is more than having a few drinks in a single sitting; it is excessively drinking frequently. This alcoholism dependence can end up creating several issues in a person’s life.

A stigma about alcoholism has emerged over the past decade. There are several myths about alcoholism that portray this substance use disorder as a very specific and unbeatable condition. However, this is simply not the case and help is always available. Today, we’ll be looking at common alcohol myths and the truth about this life-changing addiction.

Understanding Alcoholism

Before debunking the myths about alcoholism, it’s important to know what alcoholism is. Alcoholism is also known as alcohol use disorder and occurs when a person is unable to control their drinking. They may drink excessively and frequently. A person dealing with alcoholism will also become dependent on it – meaning they need it in their system to function (and will experience withdrawals/urges when it’s not). Signs of alcoholism may include:

Drinking in secrecy
Isolation from friends and family
Intense mood swings and irritability
Experiencing hangovers when not drinking
Changes in appearance and friend groups
Signs of short-term memory loss and blackouts
Justifying or making excuses for their drinking habits
Deciding to drink over obligations and responsibilities

Myth #1: The Severity of the Addiction Depends on the Type of Alcohol

There is a common myth about alcohol that choosing to drink beer instead of something harsher won’t lead to alcohol dependence. Some people may look at wine and think that it won’t be harmful to drink it in excess. The reality is that it doesn’t matter what kind of alcohol is consumed, alcohol dependency is always possible. There are many people out there who suffer from dependency on wine and beer.

Some people may also use comparison to justify their alcoholism. Some people may compare alcoholism to other more serious addiction like cocaine or benzo addiction. This is both dangerous and untrue. While there are other more serious cases of addiction, these don’t make alcoholism any less problematic and dangerous. Plus, people may use this logic to combine alcohol and other drugs (which is extremely dangerous and should never be done).

Myth #2: Alcohol Dependence is a Choice

With all cases of addiction, a person never chooses or intends to become dependent on a drug – alcoholism is no different. A person cannot control their dependence on alcohol once they have developed it. Constant alcohol use changes the chemicals in the brain and its desires. This makes it near impossible for a person to control how much they drink by themselves.

Alcohol and other drugs can affect the neurotransmitters in a person’s brain. This can escalate to the point where the body struggles to receive and send signals to the rest of the body. This can be the cause of impaired judgment and slurred speech when a person is under the influence. These types of myths place blame on the person as if they have control.

Another aspect of alcoholism people don’t realize is tolerance build-up. As a person continues to drink they become more and more tolerant to its effects. This causes them to have to drink more and more to reach their desired effects. Tolerance can start to build up over time without a person even realizing it. Tolerance is what can eventually lead to alcohol dependence. When this breaking point is hit a person will experience withdrawal symptoms when they are not drinking – some of these can be very painful and stressful.

Myth #3: Suffering from Alcoholism Means you’ve ‘Hit Rock Bottom’

One of the many myths about alcoholism includes the idea that alcoholism means you’ve hit ‘rock bottom’. The idea that you have lost your job and are in a terrible position in your social and home life. The truth is, alcoholism can look different from case to case. There are people who still maintain jobs and have families that still suffer from alcoholism.

Some still function and have responsibilities of their own while suffering from alcoholism. This idea that alcoholism means you are at rock bottom is not accurate and paints a different picture from the reality of alcoholism. Many symptoms can end up affecting a person’s life (even if they have a job or a family). If you notice any of these symptoms, it may be time to get help. Common symptoms of alcoholism can include:

Isolation
Lack of appetite
Memory lapses
Developing tolerance
Weight loss or weight gain
Making excuses for alcohol use
Irregular or inconsistent emotions
Problems focusing and concentrating
Drinking alcohol to self-medicate or relieve stress
Being defensive or getting angry when asked about alcohol use
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using (anxiety, headaches, cravings, etc.)

Myth #4: Alcoholism Only Affects Those Who Have It

People may believe that suffering from alcoholism is an isolated event. However, this is one of many myths about alcoholism that just aren’t true. In fact, it’s quite the opposite when it comes to who is affected by alcoholism. Alcohol abuse not only affects the person but everyone around them as well. A person’s spouse, children, co-workers, friends, and family can all be affected by their alcoholism.

Addiction can make someone change for the worse, sometimes become irritated, aggressive, or even violent in some cases. Time and time again, relationships are ruined and negatively affected by alcohol and drug use. This can also have an impact on the later generations as well (through a person’s children). Separation, divorce, and financial problems affect everyone around the person.

This is why it is crucial to get help so you avoid further problems for you and your family/friends. Treatment options like family therapy and counseling can be an excellent way to overcome addiction while keeping a supportive group (friends and family).

Myth #5: A Person can Overcome Alcoholism if They Try Hard Enough

The harsh reality is, that those who suffer from alcoholism never actively choose to do so. While a person may feel that they have it in them to resist the urge to drink, it is never enough. Quitting drinking takes more than willpower and motivation to do. It takes other resources and helps to break free from alcoholism.

Get the Help You Need Today

Becoming dependent on alcoholism is a process that physically happens in the brain. It is a psychological dependence, and simply trying to overcome it is not enough to break the habit. It is a much more complex and specific process trying to stop alcohol abuse. Oftentimes, a person must reach out for comprehensive help. This can only come in the form of professional help and rehab facilities like Harmony Place.

Myth #6: Those Struggling with Alcoholism Must Attend A.A. (Alcoholics Anonymous)

While Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is one of the most widely accepted treatment methods for alcoholism it isn’t required for sobriety. Many people may think that they are required to go to AA to overcome alcoholism. This is one of the myths about alcoholism that aren’t true. While it isn’t as detrimental as the others on this list, it’s important to not be narrow-minded when it comes to alcoholism treatment.

Alcoholics Anonymous is a support group that is widely used and is most famous for their use of the 12-steps. While Alcoholics Anonymous has helped many people overcome their alcohol use disorder, it’s not the only way to treat alcoholism. At the end of the day, it’s important to choose a program that will fit your needs and preferences. At Harmony Place, we strive to make you or your loved ones’ experience comfortable and personalized for you.

Myth #7: Getting Sober is Not Possible

Perhaps one of the most disheartening myths about alcoholism is that getting sober is impossible. Another version of this is that people think they can overcome alcoholism alone – neither of these myths is true. Getting on the road to recovery and reaching sobriety is possible and achievable for anyone willing to put in the work. It is not an easy road but it is definitely not impossible.

Sticking to your treatment from the start to the finish will increase your chances of sobriety and success substantially. Getting to a sober and cleaner life is possible with the help of medical professionals and counselors. You don’t have to go through the process alone and you must not be discouraged from the get-go.

Start the Journey to Sobriety at Harmony Place

Misconceptions about alcoholism often cloud the reality of this severe condition, leading many to underestimate its impact. Each year, millions of Americans find themselves struggling with the consequences of being addicted to alcohol, which can affect every aspect of their lives. Despite the widespread nature of alcoholism, hope remains for those who seek change. Harmony Place is dedicated to dispelling these myths and providing comprehensive solutions for alcohol addiction recovery.

At Harmony Place, we offer an array of treatment options, from therapy and clinical care to medication-assisted treatment, tailored to meet the diverse needs of our clients. We understand the complexities of alcoholism and are committed to guiding individuals towards a healthier future. Our partnerships with leading insurance providers, such as Optum for alcohol addiction recovery and Anthem for addiction rehab, help ensure that treatment is accessible and affordable. By navigating the intricacies of alcohol rehab insurance coverage, we aim to alleviate concerns about how much alcohol rehab might cost.

We also collaborate with Aetna for alcohol cover and BCBS for alcohol rehabilitation, making it easier for clients to focus on recovery without the burden of financial stress. Understanding the importance of paying for alcohol rehab is essential, and our team is here to provide the necessary support and guidance. If you or a loved one is grappling with alcoholism, now is the time to take action. Harmony Place is ready to help you turn things around, offering expert care and support every step of the way.

Alcohol Addiction Related Guides

Chris P

I've been to 12 rehabs over the last 20 years and NO other place has touch like Harmony Place! From the owner right down to the cleaning lady, everyone here is kinda and warm. God has blessed this place and I feel privileged to have come through here. I recommend anyone who is going through their struggle with mental health or substance abuse to pick up the phone and come! You won't regret it!

Joseph S

This place is incredible, kind, loving, patient, rigorous, educative, caring and the best place for recovery. Ill be part of the alumni crew

Monica G

I had very good experience at Harmony Place From first day I came, staff was very kind and make me feel welcome and safe. Everyone was friendly and always try to help me. The therapists are very good and caring. They listen to me and help me understand my problems better. I learn many things from them and feel stronger because of their support. The nurses also very nice and professional. They always check on me and make sure I am okay. Food was good and facilities were clean and comfortable. It help me feel more relaxed and focus on my recovery. Management also doing very good job. Everything was organized and you can see they really care about patients. I am very thankful for this place and all the people who work here. I recommend this center to anyone who needs help.

Denton

Awesome place great people u want to check this place out most definitely 😜

Tyler

A treatment center where the owners truly care about your recovery and after care.. cannot recommend enough

Jodana S

If you want to detox painlessly this is the place! The staff is A1. They truly care about us. The groups are awesome . Residential is crazy awesome! You live in a mansion. With a private chef who makes the best food. Community meeting that gets results fast, they care about your opinions. Pool and Jacuzzi are beautiful. If your struggling with addiction this is the house you should come to. I LOVE HARMONY PLACE!!!!! Thank you to all the staff they go above and beyond to make this experience comfortable therapeutic. Don't spend another day in your addiction come to Harmony Place right now!

Cass

I’ve been to 4 treatment centers before Harmony Place, and I can tell you without a single doubt that this is the absolute best by FAR. The past ones were luxury Residential Treatment centers that just treated every single client the same not tailoring to each individual, and were basically just in it for the money, dropping the ball each time. I can also tell you that I’ve never met the CEOs, but here, David comes to the facility almost every single day, and makes sure he get to know every individual here. He is incredibly kind, and was even willing to transfer me to another facility with a higher level of trauma therapy due to me having a lifetime of trauma and PTSD that just is going to take a long time to tackle. He truly cares about all of the clients having all of the tools that we need before getting released to the real world. No more of other CEO would ever be willing to miss an opportunity at making more money and even paired with my IMPECCABLE case manager to find a different facility that was more trauma based. My case manager, Sam, goes absolutely above and beyond in every single aspect. She makes sure you have a smooth transition into aftercare, provides out of this world advice when it comes to sobriety, and takes the time out of her day to make sure that FMLA and short-term disability are completely taken care of during your stay. I’ve never met a case manager that could ever compare to Sam. Ever. I feel lucky to have met her, genuinely. Marissa, my therapist, is SO SWEET, actually listens to you, and provides advice and therapy tailored to each individual’s experience. She’s handled every mood I’ve been in, never judged me, and allowed me to feel safe enough to tell her things I’ve never told any person or therapist in my 29 years of life. I’ve been going to therapy for the past 15 years, and none of those therapists even come close to how amazing she is. I’ve been to 4 other treatment centers in my life and none even come close to Harmony Place. The facility is clean, organized, and high-end. I would recommend Harmony place to my family, friends, and anyone seeking treatment. I feel SO BLESSED to have landed in their hands. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE IN THE CLINICAL STAFF BEYOND WORDS. I love you guys ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️. I feel more confident than ever in my Recovery.

Gabe H

Where to begin.. Harmony is a place that will forever be a part of my story as the first step in my recovery journey. I’m so grateful for this program. The staff is very friendly, and many of them understand what addiction is like, for they themselves have recovery stories of their own. They have an awesome team of therapists, group facilitators, nurses, RA technicians, medical and health professionals, a wonderful case manager for aftercare that cares deeply for your next steps; making sure you are set up for success. They have a wonderful admissions team (shoutout to Marielle who was so kind and understanding of my messed up situation). Everyone is very relatable and friendly. They invest heavily in the importance of diet and nutrition too - there’s a full time professional chef. I gained all the weight I lost and wanted back in the first two weeks lol. On top of the intensive programming they do throughout the day, they take us out to experience various kinds of outside groups to get a taste of the real world, and also take us on social outings during the weekend. If you’re serious about getting better this place will meet you where you’re at and prepare you to launch with a renewed mind and heart.

Monica P

I can't begin to explain just how amazing Harmony Place is. In fact, when we sit down with the owner, Jeff, and clinical director, David, on Monday mornings to have a house meeting, they ask us what they could be doing better. A bigger blender for smoothies is the ONLY thing we could come up with. Let me begin by addressing some negative reviews. If you notice many of them are from people, or are referring to people who have been asked to leave. It is because of harmony places protection of their clients that provide ideal conditions for healing and progress. There is a screening process that it is implemented where they make sure the clients they admit are ready to start a life of sobriety. Some people slip through the cracks. Some people find out a few days or weeks in that they've changed their minds. Some are inappropriate and break rules. It happens. When Harmony Place ask people to leave, It's because they are protecting the people who are here that want treatment. In effect, they're providing exactly what I needed for a genuine start to recovery. When I began my search for a treatment center, my requirements were that the facility's provide an environment in which its residents all want to be there and that it is ethically ran. I got that and so much more at Harmony Place. As well as a structured routine, they also provide a confidential and nurturing environment where one feels safe and where profound healing can begin. Their program offers a sound foundation where further progress in sober living is almost guaranteed. In group meetings, we enjoy getting to know ourselves again and with deeper understanding about why we are the way we are. We are provided with skills to handle real life. Its here that I've come to understand that its not addiction that has driven me to make a mess of my life. It is the trauma that I endured and not processing it correctly that lead to poor thinking patterns that opened the door to addiction resulting in poor life management. So we start at the bottom. Trauma. They help us understand that trauma has led to our own toxicity, what that trauma looks like and how to get out of our own way. Process groups help us learn how to take accountability and foster healthier relationships. I learned here that changing the way I think is absolutely possible and imperative to the healing process. Harmony Place offered me hope when I previously felt I was unfixable and a support team that truly loves me. Even after I leave here, I have contacts that almost demand I keep in touch and an alumni meeting where I can return to the facility on Thursday nights. I wasn't a 12 stepper when I came here but my first experience with it was not one where I was ready to stop using. I understand now that the steps will work for me. It's certainly is not the only modality that they teach. In one group, we are provided an opportunity to sit with a recently retired medical doctor to just ask questions. Another is with a nutritionist. There are a handful of people IN recovery that come to lead groups that are all accredited highly specialized where I felt understood and not judged. The knowledge I have gained here is life changing. It is also versatile and relatable for all types of people. my favorite group was dialectical behavioral therapy. There are breathing classes and sound bath groups and I started doing yoga in the morning. There's a dharma meeting they take you offsite that focuses on Buddhist values. A fantastic onsight chef provides three meals and you can have special requests. We facilitated our own Movie nights during free time. I cant forget to mention you get your own one on one meetings with your assigned primary therapist and there is comprehensive medical support complete with 24/7 nurses and a doctor that shows up throughout the week. If this is what you need to recover and you have mediCAL, cancel your mediCAL and get insurance Harmony Place accepts if you can. There are people to help you with that as well. Just call. Many, many thanks to the staff. ✔️Another life changed.🙏

Cody B

This is such an amazing place truly changed my life. I would recommend this place to anybody if they’re looking for a strong recovery house that truly cares about your recovery and not about just money So if you’re ready to change your life, don’t miss out on the greatness of harmony because this place is where it’s at