10 Myths Debunked in Honor of National Drugs and Alcohol Facts Week

Using street language: Words like addict, substance abuse, clean, sober are harmful.
- Instead of addict—try person with substance use disorder, risky use, unhealthy use
- Instead of substance abuse—try substance use
- Instead of clean or sober—try in recovery or on the path to recovery
“Addiction” is a choice: Substance use disorder is a medical diagnosis that has many biological, social and psychological factors. Substance use disorder is not a choice, and those struggling are not choosing alcohol or drugs over their family/career/friends.
Successful people can’t have an alcohol or substance use issue: the idea that “addicts” are all poor, homeless or criminals is political rhetoric coined in the 1980’s political campaign known as the War on Drugs. In fact: 55% of adults diagnosed with substance use disorder are employed. It is hard to find much additional information because the middle-class is largely left out of substance use disorder research studies. Substance use disorder affects everyone, but may affect individuals at different degrees.
Relapse is failure: Breaking the cycle of substance use disorder is difficult and requires a deep dive into topics such as emotional and physical triggers, social supports, mental health, physical health, family history. Relapsing and seeking help afterwards is not failure; it is bravery.
Everyone who uses drugs is an addict: Substance use disorder is diagnosed through an assessment with a licensed mental health professional. There are different types and severities of substance use disorders.
Treatment does not work: Since there are different types and severities of substance use disorders there are also a lot of treatments. Some patients are successful through outpatient programs and others require inpatient care. Additionally, some patients in recovery for opiate use disorder may benefit from Medication Assisted Treatment such as Suboxone or Buprenorphine.
Babies are born “addicted” to drugs/alcohol: Here again we see that terminology matters. Substance use disorder is comprised of both psychological and social factors and an infant does not possess the advanced development necessary to meet these criteria. A more compassionate phrasing of the discussion would state the child was experiencing withdrawal symptoms at birth.
Having withdrawal symptoms means you are “addicted”
ADHD/ADD medications are a “gateway drug” for teens: There is no such thing as a “gateway drug.” Not everyone who tries drugs or alcohol will become dependent on them. Alcohol and Substance Use Disorder severity has been positively correlated with trauma, family systems issues, environmental factors, social supports and mental health disorders.
“Addicts” belong in jail/prison: Research suggests that 95% of jailed users resume use after jail release and 60-80% will be arrested on new charges. Those struggling with substance or alcohol use disorder require treatment to address the behavioral concerns that are at the root of their use. Cost-effective solutions to incarceration are inpatient or outpatient recovery programs, MAT programs or court-mandated drug treatment programs.