Myths and Denials

Describe how choosing to use drugs, alcohol and tobacco will negatively impact YOUR health triangle: Mental/ Emotional Social Physical

MYTH = Unproven belief or invented story Drug myths are unrealistic beliefs that are often used to justify drug use There are many MYTHS about drug use. Knowing the truth allows us to make better choices. Although some myths have a small part that is true, for the most part, myths are untrue and unrealistic.

# 1 = Drug use provides emotional protection from the outside world. Temporary escape from reality Avoid facing problems

# 2 = Drugs help people to establish friendships. Relationships may be superficial False sense of confidence Lack of ability to learn social skills Violence is highly associated with drug use and alcohol abuse

# 3 = People get used to a drug. Warning signals are giving up! Addiction is setting in.

# 4 = Drug use shows independence Users are dependent upon the drug!

Denial = ignoring consequences that may be obvious to others Many drug users are “in denial” about their drug use. EX = “I can quit smoking anytime.” What do you think makes a person live in denial? What are the benefits for the person in denial?

Four Kinds of Denial: Drug users frequently blame others or outside social events for their drug use. Drug users may deny injury from drug use. Drug users deny their effects on others. Drug users reinterpret bad things that happen to them so that they appear to be positive, or at least not so bad.

Chemical Dependency = Drug addicted or alcoholic Tolerance = needing more and more to get the same feeling or high Increases chances for addiction Warning signs breaking down Withdrawal = symptoms people feel when they can’t get the drug they’re addicted to Obvious symptoms = sweating, shaking, irritation, headaches, sleep problems, depression.

TRAP T = trial R = recreation A = abuse P = pinned down (addicted)

What are some consequences of each stage? Trial Coughing, hangovers Recreational Meeting unhealthy people, getting into unsafe situations Abuse Trouble with relationships, school, work, etc. Pinned Down Depressed, total focus on the drug/alcohol

ENABLING Enable = helping a drug user or alcoholic to use Examples of enabling = Refusing to confront the addict Refusing to get outside help Refusing to acknowledge his/her need to change behaviors Helping addict avoid dealing with consequences Ignoring his/her use Minimizing his/her use Giving him/her money Making excuses for him/her

Where can family/friends go for help? Check the “Self-help Assistance” list AA or NA Alanon Alateen School counselor or teacher Family therapist Substance abuse affects the whole family and all of our relationships. The only solution is to get the help you need. Even if no one else in the family see that there is a problem, you can get help for yourself. Not only will you feel better, but you will also learn how to quit playing the role that enables the dysfunction to continue.