07/06/2026
1. Myth: Addiction is a choice or a moral failing.The Reality: While the initial decision to use a substance is voluntary, continued use alters the brain’s reward and impulse-control centers. It creates an overwhelming physiological compulsion, making it impossible to stop through willpower alone.
2. Myth: You must hit “rock bottom” before getting help.The Reality: Waiting for a person to reach the lowest point of their life can be fatal. Treatment and early intervention are highly effective at any stage of substance use—the earlier help is sought, the easier the condition is to manage.
3. Myth: Relapse means treatment has failed.The Reality: Addiction is a chronic condition, and recurrence (relapse) is a normal part of the recovery process—just as it is for other chronic illnesses like asthma or diabetes. It simply means the treatment plan needs to be adjusted, not that the person is a lost cause.
4. Myth: Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) just swaps one drug for another.The Reality: FDA-approved medications (such as buprenorphine or methadone) stabilize brain chemistry, ease severe withdrawal symptoms, and block the effects of substances. Rather than substituting a “high,” these treatments save lives and support long-term recovery.
5. Myth: Only “street” or “hard” drugs are addictive.The Reality: Legal substances can be just as dangerous and addictive as illicit ones. Alcohol, ma*****na, and addictive prescription drugs (like opioid painkillers) are highly capable of leading to severe substance use disorders.If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Resources and professional support are readily available to help every step of the way:
