The primary myth about AA is that “it is the only thing that works” Of course, like other myths, there is some truth in this one

A scientific idea is one which can be proved or disproved on the basis of facts (evidence) If there is not yet enough evidence to decide, and the idea is an important one, scientists will keep looking carefully for evidence that confirms or disconfirms the idea

To accomplish almost anything in life two basic elements are required: 1) we need to want to accomplish the task, and 2) we need to know how to accomplish it In changing an addiction, knowing how to change is typically less important than wanting to change

Most people have more than one significant addiction Smokers tend to be drinkers

The Latin phrase caveat emptor (“let the buyer beware”) suggests that sellers may not inform buyers of everything buyers might want to know about the purchase they are considering Caveat emptor certainly applies when considering services from the highly competitive addiction treatment industry

The reason almost all health insurance companies have stopped paying for residential addiction treatment is that the effectiveness of residential treatment and outpatient treatment has been compared many times, with no advantage being found for residential treatment The July, 1986, issue of the American Psychologist contains the definitive article (by Miller & Hester) on this subject

1) Stay focused on the desired outcome, not the process You may be hoping to find the “right” treatment for a loved one

Detoxification (“detox”), or withdrawal, is the period of time it takes your body to adjust to being without a substance which it used to have regularly During this time period a previous bodily “homeostasis” is restored, one based on not using the substance or substances

There are many places you might receive assistance for overcoming addiction These places are generally referred to as “levels of care