Treatment myths deterring addicts

Myths about treatments for drug addiction are preventing heroin and
crack cocaine addicts from seeking help, a new report
suggests.

The report, led by the European Association for the Treatment of
Addiction (Eata), says street myths about coming off drugs – such
as difficulties in accessing treatment programmes and the “cold
turkey” effect – can stop many seeking life-saving support.

The report also states that ignorance is a problem: one in three
people in England does not understand what treatment for addiction
involves although 61 per cent believe drugs are a problem in their
area.

Ian Robinson, chief-executive of Eata and co-author of the report,
said waiting times for treatment are often more myth than reality.
“In many parts of the country there are drop-in centres where users
can talk to someone immediately,” he said. 

– Treatment Works: Fact or Fiction? from www.treatmentworks.co.uk