Introduction
Globally, most individuals misunderstand addiction despite affecting many people. For example, according to statistical reports, approximately 30 million people suffer from drug use disorders (Bielefeld, 2018). Notably, myths have developed since addiction is frequently associated with social disapproval and discrimination. To a great extent, the media constantly portrays addicts as violent individuals with aberrant behaviors who cannot take care of themselves. Educating people about the effects of substance abuse and addiction can help eliminate misconceptions.
Myths
Various misconceptions regarding addiction have resulted in the segregation and isolation of addicts in society. They include addiction is a moral choice, is all about alcohol and drugs, and an addict will always remain a drug abuser. Nevertheless, such addiction myths are inaccurate due to community members’ lack of drug awareness (Bielefeld, 2018). For example, in the same manner, cancer is not a person’s decision; addiction is not a choice. When a person voluntarily injects drugs into the system, chemical reactions occur in the brain, triggering psychological behavior of having more cravings. Notably, addiction is not about alcohol and drugs but involves other compulsive conduct, including sex, gambling, and shopping. For instance, most tourists are addicted to gaming in Las Vegas (Bielefeld, 2018). In addition, addicts are not always drug abusers, as addiction is a treatable disorder, and people seeking help can recover and become productive.
I do not think that having willpower can make alcoholics stop drinking without assistance. Addiction is a disease that chemically alters people’s brains, feeding them with misinformation; thus, addicts require help, not willpower, to curb the issue. Even though most individuals using marijuana do not develop an addiction, they exhibit behaviors associated with it (Chang et al., 2019). Therefore, abuse or dependence on marijuana is addictive, leading to cannabis use disorder. Addictions are not simply bad habits, as addicts find it more challenging to make decisions due to their dependence on a substance. Bad habits are people’s behaviors that are difficult to reform and affect most societal members.
Conclusion
Misconceptions have developed since addiction is constantly related to social disapproval and discrimination. Several myths associated with addiction include addicts will always remain drug abusers, it is a moral choice, and it is all about alcohol and drugs. Such misconceptions are inaccurate due to a lack of awareness among societal members. Marijuana is addictive, and people who want to stop drinking alcohol must seek assistance and not rely on their willpower.
References
Bielefeld, S. (2018). Government mythology on income management, alcohol, addiction, and indigenous communities. Critical Social Policy, 38(4), 749-770.
Chang, J. C., Tarr, J. A., Holland, C. L., De Genna, N. M., Richardson, G. A., Rodriguez, K. L., Sheeder, J., Kraemer, K. L., Day, N. L., Rubio, D., Jarlenski, M., & Arnold, R. M. (2019). Beliefs and attitudes regarding prenatal marijuana use: Perspectives of pregnant women who report use. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 196(5), 14-20.