There are many myths about alcohol that have been around for generations. Many young men and women believe they can drink as much as they want and not experience any addiction or harmful effects of alcoholism, now commonly referred to as alcohol use disorder. This myth and others like it makes alcohol dangerous as binge drinking and other party games can lead to a serious addiction. If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction, enrolling in an addiction treatment program can help stop the abuse before any severe medical conditions develop.
At Swift River, our treatment center provides evidence-backed treatment programs that combine behavioral and holistic therapy and medical support for a well-rounded treatment experience. We can discuss alcohol myths and facts and teach patients and their families about the dangers of alcohol addiction while working on uncovering the reasons behind the addiction. The skills they learn will help them maintain their sobriety long after they complete the program. Reach out to our knowledgeable team today at 413.570.9698 to learn more about our alcohol addiction treatment program.
Some Common Myths About Alcohol
The first evidence of alcohol in the world dates back to 5,000 B.C.E. In the beginning; it was mainly used for medicinal and spiritual practices. Since then, many myths still influence people’s beliefs about alcohol and addiction. For instance, one myth is that addiction is a social disease and not a mental health disorder.
Here are some common myths about alcohol:
- Alcohol warms the body
- You can’t become addicted if you only drink beer
- Black coffee and a cold shower will cure a hangover
- Alcohol improves sexual performance
- You can have a few beers and still drive
- Binge drinking/blacking out is safe once in a while
- Beer is less addicting because of the lower alcohol content
- Women can drink as much as men
- You can drink and still be in control
- You have to drink to fit in
At Swift River, part of our treatment program includes alcohol addiction education, so patients and their families are fully aware of how dangerous alcohol is. We dispel any alcoholism myths they have while showing them how to lead productive lives free from alcohol and drugs.
Comparing Alcohol Myths and Facts
Researching myths about alcohol and the truth behind them is an excellent way to learn more about alcohol and how it impacts the person and their families. The more you know, the better equipped you will be to help someone who is struggling with alcohol abuse.
Here are some of the top alcohol myths and facts you should be aware of.
Myth: Beer Is Less Addicting than Liquor
Fact: a regular glass of beer (12 oz) has the same alcohol by volume as a glass of wine (5 oz) or one shot of liquor (1.5 oz).
Myth: Drinking More Allows You to Handle Your Liquor Better
Fact: drinking more increases your tolerance levels and requires more alcohol to feel the same effects. This does not make you a better drinker. It makes you more dependent on alcohol.
Myth: I Can Sober Up Quickly
Fact: depending on how much you drink, it can take several hours for your body to remove all alcohol from your system. The average time it takes for your body to process alcohol is one hour per drink.
Myth: Addiction Only Affects the Person Drinking
Fact: addiction impacts everyone who is close to the person struggling with addiction. It is one of the leading causes of divorce and can make their children more susceptible to addiction if they don’t seek help.
There are many alcoholism or alcohol use disorder myths that make it seem like drinking alcohol comes with no harmful side effects. The reality is long-term alcohol abuse can cause serious physical and mental harm and significantly reduce your quality of life.
Alcoholism Myths Debunked at Swift River – Massachusetts
At Swift River, we are well aware of the various myths about alcohol and will educate you and your family on the facts about alcohol and addiction. Each treatment program is tailored around each patient’s unique symptoms and will include group and individual therapy, family therapy, and medication-assisted treatment to minimize withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
When you are ready to make a positive change, reach out to our team today at 413.570.9698 or use our online form, and we will get back to you within 24 hours.
