ANYONE WHO USES DRUGS OR ALCOHOL TOO MUCH OR TOO OFTEN WILL BECOME ADDICTED

We know this does not occur in everyone, any more than diabetes occurs with people who eat too much sugar or food.

Research shows that the risk for developing alcoholism or drug addiction can be present in a person‘s predisposed genetic makeup.  Researchers are working to discover the actual genes that put people at risk for addiction. 

Remember, risk is not destiny.  Just because addiction tends to run in families, doesn't mean that a child of an addicted parent will automatically become an addict.  Knowing you are at risk is important.  You can then take the appropriate steps to protect yourself from developing problems with substance abuse.

But remember: Risk is not destiny. Just because addiction tends to run in families doesn't mean that a child of an addicted parent will automatically become an addict too. Some people develop addiction even though no one in their family has a drinking or drug problem. By the same token, not all children of chemical dependent families get into trouble with alcohol or drugs. Knowing you are at risk is important, though, because then you can take steps to protect yourself from developing problems with substance abuse.

ADDICTION IS A WILL POWER PROBLEM

This myth is exploded and disproved by current research. The scientific community has stated without question, that addiction is a brain disease that must be treated medically. An integrated approach to addiction treatment which includes medicine, to address the physiological changes that have occurred in the brain, combined with nutritional support and continuing counseling provide a person with the best chance of long-term recovery.

ALCOHOL AND DRUGS CAUSE ADDICTION

While alcohol use is required to trigger alcoholism, the majority of the population can drink alcoholic beverages with no danger of suffering from it. One of several other factors must exist for alcohol use to develop into alcoholism. These factors may include a person's social environment, emotional health and genetic predisposition.

ADDICTS AND ALCOHOLICS ARE BAD, CRAZY OR STUPID PEOPLE

That statement is as correct as saying someone with cancer or diabetes is bad, crazy or stupid. ADDICTION IS A BRAIN DISORDER THAT HAS NO CURE, BUT CAN BE MEDICALLY TREATED. A POSITIVE, PRODUCTIVE LIFE CAN BE ACHIEVED AND MAINTAINED.