“What Do Indians Really Think About Rehab & De-Addiction?”

Perceptions, Myths & Realities Backed by Data

Yogacharya Dhirendra | Vedic Mind
Healing the Mind, the Vedic Way

Introduction

Rehabilitation and de-addiction services are growing in India, but are people ready to accept them? Unfortunately, stigma, fear, and myths still surround the concept of going to a rehab center. Even as millions suffer from alcohol, drug, or tobacco addiction, very few seek professional help. Why? The answer lies in what people believe about addiction and treatment. This blog explores how Indian society views rehab and de-addiction, backed by survey data, government reports, and behavioral studies.

Perception vs Reality: What Most Indians Believe About Rehab

🔹1. "Nasha apni marzi se chhoda ja sakta hai"

(Most people believe willpower is enough.)

• Reality: According to the AIIMS 2019 national survey, only 1 in 10 people with substance dependence actually receive structured treatment.
• Addiction is a chronic mental health disorder, not a moral weakness.
• Just like diabetes or high BP, it needs professional intervention.

🔹 2. "Rehab jana pagalpan hai"

(Going to rehab means you’re mentally ill.)

• Reality: This is the most harmful myth.
• In fact, de-addiction treatment is medical and therapeutic, not psychiatric admission.
• WHO classifies substance use disorders as treatable brain conditions, not insanity.

🔹 3. “Rehab mein sirf maar padti hai, band kar dete hain”

(Rehab is a jail – people are locked and beaten.)

• Reality: While some unethical centers do exist, good rehab centers follow strict ethical protocols including yoga therapy, counseling, and medical care.
• A 2023 report by the Ministry of Social Justice recommends only certified centers for treatment.

🔹 4. "Log kya kaheng?"

(Social stigma keeps families from seeking help.)

• Reality: A study by Indian Journal of Psychiatry found that over 60% of families delay treatment because of fear of social image loss.
• Yet, delayed treatment leads to violence, suicide, job loss, and family breakdown.

📊 Data-Backed Insights on Indian Public Opinion

1. AIIMS Survey (2019)

• Only 12–15% of those with serious addiction receive medical treatment.
• 80%+ do not seek help due to stigma, fear, or lack of awareness.

2. UNODC India Youth Perception Report (2023)

• Among urban youth:
  • 52% feel rehab is shameful
  • 34% would prefer home-based therapy over admission
  • 68% want anonymous treatment options

3. NDPS Court Data (2022)

• Many addicts caught by police are sent to jail rather than rehab.
• Lack of awareness among law enforcement and families makes things worse.

 Common Myths About Addiction in India

What Indian People Actually Want from a Rehab Centre

Based on behavioral research and therapy feedback:

• Compassionate treatment, not control or punishment
• Holistic healing through yoga, meditation, and talk therapy
• Home-based or online treatment options to avoid social pressure
• Involvement of family with proper education and counseling
• Confidentiality and respect

Changing Attitudes: The Good News

• Increase in self-referrals: More people are coming forward voluntarily, especially youth.
• Online therapy boom: Platforms like Vedic Mind, MindPeers, and iWill are making therapy accessible without fear.
• Govt. campaigns like "Nasha Mukt Bharat" are shifting perception through school & college outreach.

The Way Forward: Awareness + Accessible Healing

If we want to reduce addiction in India, we must change the way people think about rehab:

• Talk openly about recovery
• Create non-judgmental spaces for seeking help
• Promote yoga and Vedic therapies as accepted forms of care
• Ensure rehab = healing, not punishment

About Vedic Mind

At Vedic Mind, we are on a mission to make de-addiction:

• Affordable
• Accessible
• Respectful

We offer online sessions, home visits, yoga therapy, and mental healing through ancient Vedic wisdom.📞 Contact: 81080 37581

🌐 Website: www.vedimind.com

📱 Instagram: @vedi_mind