Addiction is something that we do not like to talk about in this country. Addiction is taboo. You are considered to be a wayward soul if you admit to any kind of addition. This mentality is precisely what is fueling the addiction and mental illness epidemic that is unfolding in the United States. We treat mental illness much differently than physical illness. There is this stigma and shame that is instantly attached to a person who admits to having a mental illness. This only makes them delve deeper into their illness and prevents them from seeking out help. One of the most common additions is to alcohol. Alcoholism affects millions of people. So many families try so hard to keep this issue secret from their friends and neighbours.
There is a certain shame attached to being an alcoholic. It has become almost synonymous with neglect and abuse and a symbol for how much a person has thrown their life away. In reality, alcohol addiction is none of those things. It is an illness. It is an addiction. And just like you do for any illness, you should seek out help. Alcohol treatment centers are places where you can seek help and get the guidance that you need to be on your road to recovery. Whether it is through Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings, Alanon meetings, or Alateen meetings for your children, alcohol addiction requires help. There should be no stigma in seeking help. Alcohol treatment centers help you get the help that you need to live a life of sobriety. Addiction is a disease. People suffering from any other disease, like cancer or heart disease, get nothing but love and support. People support preventative measures like getting annual mammograms or eating right and exercising. Cancer patients get love filled support through chemotherapy and recovery. Heart disease patients get a diet and fitness overhaul, and support through surgery.
Alcoholics get sideways glances and raised eyebrows. They get whispering voices behind their backs. They do not get support through their disease and that is wrong. An alcoholic should be able to go to an alcohol treatment center to seek help without the stigma and shame that is present towards mental illness in today’s society. The only way we can combat the mental illness and addiction epidemics in our country is to start changing our attitudes towards mental illness and addition. Contact Ranch Creek Recovery for help.