How Well Do You Understand Addiction?

Addiction to drugs or alcohol, also known as substance use disorder, is prevalent throughout the United States, with an estimated 46 million people struggling with it and in need of help. Unfortunately, many people who need treatment are not getting it. One reason is that a stigma of shame still persists around substance abuse, and that sense of shame often acts as an obstacle to treatment and recovery. Much of what the public believes about substance abuse disorder and addiction comes from longstanding stereotypes and misconceptions, and this is what feeds the stigma.

Do you think you understand addiction? Are you aware of the common myths versus the actual facts? Read through the information below to test your knowledge of addiction and learn about some of the most current concepts in treatment and recovery.

True or False:

Addiction is a mental illness.

FALSE. Addiction is a treatable medical condition. It creates irreversible changes in the brain. It may be accompanied by mental illness, including depression and anxiety.

Addiction is primarily a problem of young adults and teens.

FALSE: Addiction can happen to anyone, from a newborn infant to your beloved grandmother. It affects all age groups, including babies who may have been subjected to addictive substances in utero and are born addicted. Adults, even seniors, may become addicted to opioids and pain medications at any age. Age, race, gender and income are not barriers to addiction.

Addiction is a genetic disease. It runs in families.

TRUE: There are definitely genetic risk factors which can increase the risk of addiction for certain individuals. Family history, as well the impact of the home environment, can have a significant role, along with other risk factors.

Effective treatment of addiction should include medical, psychological, spiritual and social services.

TRUE: The most successful treatment programs offer all of the above in various formats to meet individual needs. There is no “one size fits all” in addiction treatment.

12 Step Programs offer support and group therapy, and significantly reduce the risk of relapse.

TRUE: Recovery from substance abuse is a long process of detoxification, rehabilitation, transition and follow-up care. It is a long process which often includes 12 Step Programs; recovery also requires ongoing, long term support from loved ones who are willing to go the distance with the person in recovery.

Everyone who uses illicit substances will become an addict.

FALSE: In some people, the brain reacts to substances in a way that leads to addiction. This is not true for everyone. Many people misuse drugs and alcohol without becoming addicted.

“Once an addict, always an addict.” Relapse is inevitable and there is no cure for substance abuse disorder.

FALSE: Millions of people have successfully completed recovery programs and are enjoying a renewed quality of life. Treatment, including medications for addiction treatment (MAT) is very effective. You can recover from addiction to opioids, pain medications, sedatives, alcohol and other substances. Addiction can be managed like a chronic disease. There is reason for hope.