Despite decades of research and evolving medical understanding, the stigma surrounding addiction remains deeply rooted in society. People living with alcohol use disorder (AUD), substance use disorder (SUD), or co-occurring mental health challenges often carry not just the weight of their illness, but also the heavy burden of judgment, misunderstanding, and isolation.
To dismantle misinformation, we must begin by knowing where it comes from, how it harms, and why reframing addiction as a health issue is not only scientifically accurate, but also a vital step toward healing—on both an individual and societal level.
A Look Back: Addiction Through a Historical Lens
For much of human history, addiction was considered a moral or spiritual deficiency. Those who struggled with compulsive drinking or drug use were often regarded as weak, sinful, or lacking discipline. Instead of medical support, they were met with punishment, shame, or social exile.
In the early 20th century, recovery programs, though well-meaning, often reinforced the idea that addiction was a personal failing to be overcome through sheer willpower—one of many myths that fostered more intolerance.
It wasn’t until the late 20th century that addiction scientists began to explore the physiological and neurological underpinnings of <a href="https://greatoaksrecovery.com/alcohol-detoxification/">AUD</a> and SUD. Advances in brain imaging and neurochemistry helped uncover what those in recovery already suspected: addiction isn’t a choice, and it’s not just a behavioral issue—it’s a complex brain disease.
Does It Matter to Define Addiction as a Brain Disease?
Yes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides a simple breakdown of what happens to the brain, which we provide verbatim:
- When people take drugs or use alcohol, the brain is flooded with chemicals that take over the brain’s reward system and cause them to repeat behaviors that feel good but aren’t healthy.
- The brain adapts to continued use by developing a tolerance, which means it takes more of a substance to feel the same result.
- Not only does this lessen the brain’s ability to resist temptation, but it can also affect the amount of pleasure a person receives from normal, healthy activities like enjoying food or the company of others.
Eventually, these changes impair the brain’s ability to resist cravings, manage emotions, and find joy in everyday life. That’s why even people who desperately want to stop using often find it nearly impossible without support.
Addiction is also deeply intertwined with mental health. Many people develop substance use disorders as a way to cope with trauma, anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions. This is known as a dual diagnosis, highlighting the need for integrated, compassionate care that treats the whole person—not just the symptoms.
What Are the Consequences of Stigma in Addiction Treatment?
The CDC states that approximately 1 in 6 Americans report experiencing AUD or SUD. However, research from Johns Hopkins Medicine shows that stigma unfortunately continues to affect not only public perception, but also the quality of care people receive—even in healthcare settings.
When someone living with SUD or AUD is judged instead of supported, they may delay or avoid seeking treatment altogether. This causes worsening health, isolation, and in some cases, life-threatening consequences.
Why Does Language Matter in Recovery?
The word “addict” has a troubling origin. Derived from the Latin addictus, it once referred to being enslaved or surrendered—dehumanizing terms that strip away agency. While groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) historically embraced terms like “alcoholic” as a badge of shared struggle, today’s understanding encourages a more nuanced approach.
John F. Kelly, founder of the Recovery Research Institute at Massachusetts General Hospital, warns that using words like “abuser” might reinforce the idea that people with AUDs or SUDs are engaging in intentional misconduct. This fuels stigma and undermines the reality of addiction as a brain-based illness.
Stigma can also cause individuals to internalize harmful beliefs, leading them to use terms like “addict” or “alcoholic” as though their illness defines who they are. But we don’t define people with cancer, diabetes, or asthma by their disease. We say, “a person living with…” not “a cancer.”
The same compassion should be extended to people in recovery. Using person-first terminology—such as “person with a substance use disorder”—is a small but powerful way to show respect and encourage people to take care of their health. Changing how we talk about addiction doesn’t erase the struggle—but it opens the door to greater empathy, more effective treatment, and lasting recovery.
Find Dedicated Care and Support at Great Oaks
Addiction is a chronic, complex condition influenced by biology, environment, trauma, and mental health. It’s treatable, and recovery is possible. But only if we, as a society, make space for it. That means breaking down stigma and leaning into compassion, science, and support.
At Great Oaks Recovery Center outside of Houston, Texas, we encourage everyone to remember that someone with AUD, SUD, or a co-occurring disorder is more than their diagnosis—they’re a human being, deserving of care, dignity, and hope. This is the cornerstone of our treatment philosophy. If you or a loved one is ready for this kind of treatment, talk to a member of our admissions team to learn more.
