This document discusses common myths and facts about alcohol and drug abuse. It begins by debunking the myth that marijuana is not addictive, noting that approximately one in ten marijuana users will develop an addiction. It also counters the myth that drug addiction is a choice by explaining how prolonged drug use changes brain chemistry and removes choice. Withdrawal symptoms and their costs of treatment are also covered. The document aims to dispel misconceptions around addiction.

1. Myths & Facts
About
Alcohol & Drug Abuse
By:
Jackie Rico
Isabel Blanco
Jared Jacobs

2. Myth:
Marijuana is not addictive.
Fact:
False, According to the drug
information available,  Q: How do I know if I have
approximately one out of ten a drug or alcohol addiction?
people who use marijuana will
develop an addiction to it.
 A: The major symptom of
drug or alcohol addiction is
the onset of withdrawal
symptoms after not
consuming the substance for
a period of time.

3. Myth:
Drug addiction is a choice.
Fact:
Drug use is a choice, and prolonged use
changes your body and brain chemistry.
When that happens, the user no longer
appears to have a choice—this is when
use and misuse become addiction.
 Q: What are withdrawal symptoms?
 A: Withdrawal symptoms are the body’s reactions to the absence of
an addictive substance. Almost every drug, including alcohol can
produce withdrawal symptoms once you have developed an
addiction to it.

4. Myth:
Addicts are bad people.
Fact:
Addicts aren’t “bad” people trying
to get “good,” they’re sick people
trying to get well.
 Q: How much does it cost to treat someone with a substance
abuse or addiction problem?
 A: According to drug abuse articles on the Substance Abuse
and Mental Health Services Administration website (SAMHSA),
the average cost of outpatient and inpatient treatment was
$1,422 and $3,840 per course

5. Myth:
There is an addiction gene
Fact:
There is no single gene, or set of genes,
that determines whether or not a person
will become an addict. Current addiction
research shows that roughly 50% of
addiction tendencies are attributable to
genes.
 Q: How many people overcome their addictions?
 A: According to Medicine Net, about 70 percent of people who are
addicted to alcohol are able to decrease the frequency with which
they consume the substance after completing a course of treatment.

6. Articles
http://www.projectknow.com/research/alcohol-and-drugs/
http://www.phoenixhouse.org/news-and-views/our-
perspectives/ten-popular-myths-drugs-addiction-recovery/
http://www.cnn.com/2012/09/13/health/jaffe-addiction-
myths/index.html?iref=allsearch