Mythbusters: 5 facts about substance use and recovery that may surprise you
A loved one struggles with drug or alcohol use, unsure of where to turn for help. The internet is flooded with misinformation, and well-meaning friends and family may offer advice that’s not based in clinical evidence. It’s a scenario that can play out with negative consequences. However, knowing the facts around common myths can lead to a more compassionate environment and positive outcome.
Myth #1: Anyone can stop if they have the willpower
Fact: Telling someone with diabetes to simply "will" their blood sugar levels back to normal is unrealistic. Substance use disorders are also chronic diseases that aren’t a matter of willpower or choice. Research shows that addiction alters the brain's structure and function, making it difficult for a person to control their behavior.
Myth #2: A person must hit rock bottom before they can go to treatment
Fact: The sooner someone receives treatment, the better their chances of recovery. Early intervention can prevent further harm to health and reduce the risk of overdose or death.
Myth #3: Treatment means complete abstinence from alcohol
Fact: While abstinence can be a goal for those struggling with drinking too much, it's not the only approach. Treatment options, such as harm reduction and medication-assisted therapy, can help people reduce their alcohol use and improve their overall health. Many Regence virtual providers offer treatment that can be tailored to a person’s needs and circumstances.
Myth #4: Tough love can help people who have a substance use disorder
Fact: Tough love, or the idea of cutting ties with someone struggling, can be harmful and even counterproductive. This approach can lead to feelings of shame and guilt, which can make it harder to reduce substance use or seek treatment. Instead, a supportive and non-judgmental environment can encourage a person to seek help and stay committed to their recovery.
Myth #5: Substance use disorders only affect certain types of people
Fact: Chronic drug and alcohol use can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, profession or socioeconomic status. It's a disease that doesn’t discriminate and can impact every part of a person’s life, as well as their loved ones.
Regence members can access a variety of behavioral health resources
Whether someone needs occasional support or ongoing care, Regence has a variety of programs to prevent, identify and treat mental health and substance use disorders.
Most of our health plans offer access to traditional and virtual substance use disorder treatment providers, including Boulder Care, Eleanor Health (WA only) and Hazelden Betty Ford.
Regence also offers virtual mental health treatment options from providers such as AbleTo Therapy+, Doctor on Demand, Talkspace, Charlie Health and more. No referral is needed – you can visit the provider website and fill out their intake form for an appointment. If your employer has an employee assistance program (EAP), your use of the program is confidential and at low or no cost.
We encourage you to visit these providers’ websites, call our customer service team or visit regence.com to verify which virtual care and traditional behavioral health options are available through your health plan. Regence also provides free language services to people whose primary language is not English, such as: qualified interpreters and information written in other languages.