Last Updated on September 22, 2025
6 Common Myths About Addiction
Breaking the Myths About Addiction At A Glance
- Addiction changes the brain and impairs willpower — it is recognized as a chronic disease, not a moral failing.
- People with addiction don’t all look or act the same; it can affect anyone, including high-functioning individuals.
- Prescription drugs carry real risks, and dependence or addiction can develop even with doctor-prescribed use.
- Using drugs or alcohol does not always equal addiction; true addiction involves compulsive use and harmful consequences.
- There is no one-size-fits-all treatment; effective recovery depends on individualized, evidence-based approaches.
Table of Contents
The concept of addiction is clouded with many misconceptions and assumptions, making it difficult for friends and family members to truly understand what an addicted loved one is going through. There are countless myths floating around about drug abuse, addiction, and alcoholism, but here are just a few of the most common myths and misconceptions.
Addiction Myth #1: People who are addicted just lack willpower.
It’s a common notion to assume that addicted individuals just lack the willpower to overcome their drug or alcohol abuse. However, addiction actually changes the brain of the user, severely impairing willpower and hampering self-control. Additionally, most medical associations including the American Medical Association and the American Society of Addiction Medicine classify addiction as a chronic disease, meaning it is a long-lasting condition that can be controlled but not cured (similar to diabetes or cancer).1 Just as individuals cannot overcome cancer with sheer willpower, it’s highly unlikely that addicted individuals can either.
Addiction changes the way a person’s brain and body functions, inhibiting their ability to resist their substance of choice. When drugs are abused, pleasure chemicals are released in the brain, and over time, this release of chemicals modifies the parts of the brain that control pleasure, motivation, and memory. As a result, people who are addicted to drugs or alcohol with experience extreme cravings and frequently end up prioritizing their drug use over life-sustaining necessities like food, water, and shelter.
Addiction Myth #2: All addicts are the same.
The stereotype that addicted individuals are all low-income or unemployed, minorities, criminals, or of low socioeconomic status is simply not true. Recent reports published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) clearly show that addiction can affect anyone.2
Many people are also high-functioning addicts. These individuals are often able to achieve professional success, maintain a social network, and continue to hold up appearances at home, all while hiding their addiction and substance abuse from family, friends, and coworkers. This can’t last forever, but in many cases, loved ones don’t find out about the problem until it has completely spiraled out of control. High-functioning addicts may be able to function for a while, but in the end, the truth always makes itself known.
Addiction Myth #3: Prescription drugs are safe as long as they are taken as prescribed.
Many people believe prescription drugs are safer than illicit drugs just because they are recommended by a doctor. But according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, prescription drugs can be just as dangerous and addictive as illicit drugs.3 Unfortunately, some drugs, such as prescription opioids like Lorcet, Dolophine (methadose), and Duramorph/Roxanol (morphine), Percodan (oxycodone), and can result in addiction even if a person takes them as prescribed by their doctor. In fact, prescription opioids are the most commonly abused prescription drugs. Cough and cold medicines, like Codeine, are the most frequently abused over-the-counter medications.3 Benzodiazepines like , Klonopin (clonazepam), Ativan (lorazepam), and Doral are also commonly abused in the U.S.although they are often overshadowed by opioids, are also commonly abused in the U.S.
Your doctor should always consider your health conditions, current, and past drug use, as well as alternative medications before prescribing a potentially addictive drug to treat your symptoms. If you feel uncomfortable taking a medication that your doctor prescribed, there is absolutely nothing wrong with seeking a second opinion or asking your doctor about alternative options.
Freedom Starts Here. Take Back Your Life Today.
Same-Day Admissions in Austin Available.
Addiction Myth #4: Every person that uses drugs is an addict.
Although drug abuse can certainly lead to addiction (and in many cases it does), not every person that uses drugs or alcohol is addicted. In some cases, a person may be physically dependent on a substance, but not addicted. This is because certain parts of the brain are associated with addiction while others are associated with physical dependence.4
For example, a hospital patient may be dependent on morphine after receiving it regularly for pain relief. Once they are taken off of the drug, they will experience withdrawal symptoms, but this situation does not involve any of the compulsive, uncontrollable use that is associated with addiction.
Unlike physical dependence, addiction is characterized by uncontrollable cravings, an inability to control usage and continued use despite doing harm to oneself and those around them.5 Drug detox is required to break a person’s physical dependence on a substance and alcohol and drug rehab is needed to modify the negative behavioral and thought patterns associated with addiction.
Addiction Myth #5: Addiction is a sign of moral failure.
The stigma surrounding addiction implies that addicted people lack morals, but this assumption is completely unfounded. While the initial choice to use a drug may not have been a wise decision, people don’t set out to become addicted to drugs and alcohol and they certainly do not choose the consequences that come with it.
No one knows what causes addiction, but there are several known risk factors that may increase a person’s likelihood to become addicted to drugs and alcohol. The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse reports that genetics account for 50-75 percent of risk for addiction and there are also numerous other addiction risk factors to consider, such as:6
- Exposure to physical, sexual, or emotional abuse
- Exposure to trauma
- Substance abuse in the family or within peer social groups
- Drug use that begins at an early age
- Mental illness
- Certain personality traits and brain characteristics
Addiction Myth #6: Only one type of addiction treatment works.
Just as every individual is different, addiction treatment should vary as well. While an inpatient alcohol and drug rehab program may have been a fantastic choice for your mom, your coworker may benefit more from an outpatient drug rehab program. Much of it will depend on personal circumstances, the person’s current and past drug use, and any previous treatment they have received in the past.
Although the National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that evidence-based long-term addiction treatment lasting at least 90 days is more likely to result in long-term sobriety, there are many aspects of treatment that should be adjusted to better fit the needs of each individual.7 For example, pet therapy may be extremely advantageous for one person, but it may not be as powerful for another individual.
A high-quality rehab center, such as Nova Recovery Center, should incorporate a variety of evidence-based treatments into individualized treatment plans that are designed based on the needs of the client. These alcohol and drug rehab programs should be fluid and constantly updated as the client progresses through the program. This process will look different for everyone, but that doesn’t mean that one process works better than another.
The most important thing is to find a drug and alcohol rehab program that works for you or your loved one. If you’re interested in learning more about our rehab center and the continuum of care we offer, please contact our admissions team today.
How Nova Recovery Center Helps You Break Free from Addiction
Nova Recovery Center provides comprehensive, evidence-based treatment designed to help individuals overcome addiction and achieve lasting recovery. Our programs address the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of substance use, offering a full continuum of care that includes medical detox, residential treatment, outpatient services, and sober living support. We believe that recovery is not one-size-fits-all, which is why we create individualized treatment plans tailored to each client’s unique needs. Our experienced team utilizes proven therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, relapse prevention strategies, and holistic practices that strengthen the mind, body, and spirit. Clients also benefit from peer support and a strong recovery community that fosters accountability and encouragement. At Nova, we focus not only on treating addiction but also on uncovering the root causes that fuel substance use. With long-term relapse prevention and aftercare planning, we prepare clients for success beyond treatment. By combining professional guidance with compassionate support, Nova Recovery Center empowers individuals to rebuild their lives and embrace a healthier, substance-free future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Addiction Treatment in Texas
What helps drug addicts recover?
Successful recovery often involves a combination of medical detox, evidence-based therapies, peer support, and relapse prevention planning. Structured treatment programs provide the tools needed to address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.
How much does rehab cost in Texas?
The cost of rehab in Texas varies depending on the level of care, facility amenities, and program length. Options range from affordable outpatient care to more intensive residential treatment programs. Many centers also accept insurance to reduce costs.
How do addicts afford rehab?
Individuals often pay for rehab through private health insurance, Medicaid, employee assistance programs, or financing options offered by treatment facilities. Some nonprofit and state-funded programs provide reduced-cost or free care for qualifying clients.
Does insurance cover rehab for addiction?
Yes, most insurance plans cover addiction treatment under behavioral health benefits. Coverage depends on the provider, the level of care needed, and whether the treatment center is in-network.
Who pays for rehab if you can’t afford it?
If someone cannot afford rehab, state-funded programs, scholarships, nonprofit organizations, and community health services may provide financial support. Families and support networks may also assist with funding.
Do free rehabs exist?
Yes, free rehabs are available in some areas, often funded by the state or nonprofit organizations. These programs may have waiting lists but still provide essential addiction recovery services.
How to get funding for drug rehab?
Funding options include applying for grants, using employee assistance programs, seeking nonprofit aid, or exploring sliding-scale fee structures at certain treatment facilities.
Does Texas Medicaid cover drug rehab?
Yes, Texas Medicaid covers some addiction treatment services, including detox, inpatient, and outpatient care. Coverage varies by individual eligibility and treatment needs.
How much does it cost to detox your body?
The cost of medical detox depends on the type of substance, length of treatment, and level of monitoring required. Insurance may help offset the expense.
What does medical detox consist of?
Medical detox involves round-the-clock supervision by healthcare professionals, use of medications to ease withdrawal symptoms, and supportive care to stabilize clients before entering long-term treatment.
What is the success rate of medical detox?
Medical detox is highly effective for safely managing withdrawal symptoms, but long-term success depends on following detox with comprehensive addiction treatment and relapse prevention strategies.
Other Drug and Alcohol Rehab Locations
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Addiction is a complex medical condition that requires guidance from a qualified healthcare provider. Do not attempt to self-diagnose, stop, or change any treatment plan without consulting a medical professional. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, severe withdrawal symptoms, or thoughts of self-harm, call 911 immediately in the United States or seek emergency medical care. For confidential mental health support, you can also dial 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.
Nova Recovery Center Editorial Guidelines
By instituting a policy, we create a standardized approach to how we create, verify, and distribute all content and resources we produce. An editorial policy helps us ensure that any material our writing and clinical team create, both online and in print, meets or exceeds our standards of integrity and accuracy. Our goal is to demonstrate our commitment to education and patient support by creating valuable resources within our realm of expertise, verifying them for accuracy, and providing relevant, respectful, and insightful data to our clients and families.
- Bowen, Sarah, et al. “Relative Efficacy of Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention and Relapse Prevention in Adults with Substance Use Disorders.” JAMA Psychiatry, vol. 71, no. 5, May 2014, pp. 547-556. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/1839290
- McGovern, Mark P., et al. “Evidence-Based Practices for Substance Use Disorders.” PMC, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2003. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3678283/
- “Evidence-Based Practices Resource Center.” SAMHSA, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. https://www.samhsa.gov/libraries/evidence-based-practices-resource-center
- Reif, Sandra, et al. “What Is the Evidence for Peer Recovery Support Services?” Recovery Answers. https://www.recoveryanswers.org/research-post/what-is-the-evidence-for-peer-recovery-support-services/
- “Peers Supporting Recovery from Substance Use Disorders.” SAMHSA, Program to Support Peer Recovery Support Services, 2017. https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/programs_campaigns/brss_tacs/peers-supporting-recovery-substance-use-disorders-2017.pdf
- Quiroz Santos, E., et al. “The Impact of Peer-Based Recovery Support Services.” The Journal of Behavioral Health Services & Research, 2025. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11414-024-09929-9
- “Substance Use Disorder Treatment: Complementary Approaches.” U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Whole Health Library. https://www.va.gov/WHOLEHEALTHLIBRARY/tools/substance-use-disorder-treatment-complementary-approaches.asp
