Addiction is one of the most common illnesses in the United States. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most misunderstood. Myths about addiction abound, despite many having been debunked decades ago. They stop people from taking the right steps to prevent addiction and can even limit access to treatment.
It’s understandable that there are misunderstandings when it comes to addiction. Addiction affects how people think and behave, leading to choices which seem baffling to others. Its impact harms not just the person addicted but friends and family as well. Snap judgments are natural.
This is why it’s so important to learn the reality of addiction and debunk misconceptions. Here are 7 myths about addiction that are holding people back.
Myth 1: Addiction is a Choice
A widespread myth that has caused major harm over the decades, the idea that addiction is a choice has been disproven countless times through rigorous research. Although using substances can seem like a decision to an outsider, addiction is actually a disease that can’t be defeated by willpower alone.
The irony is that most addicts would not hesitate to make the choice to stop using if it was that easy. However, there are physical and psychological factors that cause the person to continue.
The body becomes dependent on substances, with painful consequences if the person goes cold turkey. The psyche also becomes dependent, with addictive behaviors replacing healthy coping mechanisms. Comprehensive treatment is necessary to overcome these dependencies.
Myth 2: Only Certain Types of People Become Addicts
Who is an addict? Many people will think of a specific stereotype, often perpetuated by the media and society. For some, there is a comfort in thinking only certain types of people become addicts. After all, if they do not resemble the stereotype, they are safe.
But the reality is vastly different. People from all backgrounds can become addicts. It is an illness that crosses economic lines, affects all races and ethnicities, and can begin at any age.
Stereotypes of addicts not only lead to the mistreatment of certain types of people but also prevent others from taking addiction seriously. Rather than taking preventative measures, they remain ignorant of the possibility that they are at risk.
Myth 3: Addiction Treatment is a One-Size-Fits-All Solution
Inpatient rehab is generally touted as the best treatment for addiction. It gives the individual the time and resources to recover. But that does not mean everyone’s addiction treatment is the same.
On the contrary, rehabs like Seasons in Malibu design personalized treatment programs for each individual. This plan may determine the length of treatment, the types of therapy used, and which issues are dealt with in the process.
There are many different routes to addiction and there are therefore many different routes to recovery. With complex psychological dynamics at play, and since environment and context matters, individuality is a critical component of a treatment plan.
Myth 4: People Need to Hit “Rock Bottom” Before Recovering
Everyone has heard the cliché that it is necessary to hit “rock bottom” in order to begin recovery. There is a perception that this drastic reality is what leads people to recognize that something has to change.
But, while terrible consequences can cause an epiphany for an addict, it is certainly not advisable to wait until that point. In fact, it is dangerous to assume that recovery needs to be the consequence of a “rock bottom” moment. Substances can be fatal and, if used for an extended time, can leave the body with permanent damage even if the person never overdoses.
The best time to get treatment is right now, before things get any worse.
Myth 5: Relapse Means Treatment Failed
A person leaves rehab sober and ready to face the world. They have worked hard in recovery and are committed to the journey. Then, they relapse.
In these scenarios, there is a common misconception that relapse means starting again. The belief is that treatment has failed and the person is not actually ready to face the world. That they require a whole new approach before their recovery can be sustained.
But relapse is not a failure. It does not mean that the person is starting again, but rather that they have to recommit to their recovery. They have not forgotten everything they learned. Relapse is often a part of the process and people can come back from it with more momentum than before.
Myth 6: Prescription Drugs are Safe and Non-Addictive
Part of the reason people believe that addiction is a choice and that only certain stereotypes become addicted is the assumption that addictive substances are those one can only acquire illegally. If a doctor prescribes something, it is assumed to be safe and non-addictive.
Unfortunately, this is far from the case. In fact, the opioid crisis has been driven by the prescription of legal painkillers, pushed by pharmaceutical companies as perfectly safe. Irresponsible prescription practices have led to people becoming addicts simply from treating an issue like an injury or chronic pain.
Myth 7: Addiction Only Affects the Individual
If you ask a person’s perspective on how we should approach addiction as a society, they may tell you that it’s not their problem. They assume that only the person addicted is affected and, if they don’t feel compassion for that person, it should not matter to them.
However, addiction is a problem that affects far more than those who are addicted. It can tear apart families, causing dysfunction, financial problems, and mental illness. It causes major issues in society, including crime, unemployment, and economic decline.
It is a problem that we need to deal with at a societal level, not just for the people addicted but for the good of us all.
Conclusion
It is unfortunate that myths about addiction still persist in 2025. They can be extremely harmful and set recovery efforts back. By understanding what these myths are and the actual reality, we can begin to create a better individual and societal response to addiction.
Sources
APA: What is a Substance Use Disorder?
NIDA: Understanding Drug Use and Addiction DrugFacts
NIDA: Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide
