Addiction is still quite stigmatized in our communities, in our larger societies, and in our mainstream culture. There are stereotypes and misconceptions that fuel this stigmatization, keeping those who don’t identify as addicts from fully understanding what it is we actually experience when struggling with addiction. In many ways, addiction is judged and demonized, in ways other illnesses are not. Addicts are often seen as criminals and as shameful, immoral people. We’re accused of choosing this life, and making a conscious decision to live a life of turmoil, suffering, corruption, and crime. We’re criticized harshly for bringing this life on ourselves, for being self-destructive, for not knowing better, for not trying hard enough to quit. There are many misconceptions that contribute to the cultural apathy towards addicts, one of them being that addiction is a sign of weakness and that only weak people fall victim to it.
Addiction as Weakness
There are countless different lines of thought around addiction specifically as it relates to the presence or absence of strength. Addicts are considered to be devoid of inner strength, resilience, willpower and resolve. We’re thought of as weak and out of control. We’re seen as being lost and confused, aimless and without direction in our lives. Many people believe that strong people are simply able to withstand the temptation of addictive substances and behaviors, that they know how to resist drugs and alcohol, that they know how to practice moderation, and that they’re smarter and better able to make good choices in their lives. They’re considered to be more righteous and moral in their lives. They’re seen as having more fortitude, maturity and self-control. Many people fail to realize that there are countless layers to the addiction recovery process that involve much more than willpower and determination, such as learning new and healthier habits to replace old ones in order to facilitate our healing. Many people don’t know that even the strongest, most determined people, who have considerable willpower and self-control in other areas of their lives can still struggle with addiction at the same time.
Internalizing the Perception of Weakness
As addicts, we can internalize these ways of thinking and start to question our own strength. Our self-perception begins to include the belief that addiction and weakness are linked. We start to see ourselves as weak, which only hinders our resolve in the work we’re doing. We can choose to see how much strength we possess in simply living with addiction and surviving its many challenges. We can see how strong we are in making the choice to ask for help. We can focus on just how much strength we possess to be taking the steps to recover and overcome our addictions.
Are you ready to take the first step on your journey to recovery?
Call The Guest House today! 855-483-7800.
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3230 Northeast 55th Avenue Silver Springs, FL 34488