Addiction: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is addiction a disease?

Yes. Addiction—also called a substance use disorder—is a chronic, treatable medical condition, similar to conditions such as diabetes, asthma, or heart disease.

Like other chronic illnesses, addiction often involves periods of improvement and recurrence. It is not caused by a lack of character, morality, or willpower. Genetics, brain chemistry, mental health, trauma, environment, and access to care all play a role.

With appropriate treatment and support, many people manage addiction successfully and go on to live healthy, productive lives.

The American Medical Association formally recognized addiction as a disease in 1957, and medical understanding of addiction as a health condition has existed for centuries. Today, neuroscience and clinical research continue to strengthen this understanding.

Q: Does addiction treatment work?

Yes. Treatment is effective, especially when it is tailored to the individual and sustained over time.

Research shows that addiction treatment has similar success rates to treatment for other chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma. People who engage in treatment often:

• reduce or stop substance use

• improve physical and mental health

• strengthen relationships

• improve work, school, and daily functioning

As with other chronic conditions, ongoing care and follow-up improve long-term outcomes.

Q: Does relapse mean that treatment failed?

No. Relapse does not mean treatment failed.

Because addiction is a chronic condition, recurrence of symptoms can occur—just as it can with asthma, diabetes, or high blood pressure. A return to use is a signal that treatment may need to be adjusted, resumed, or strengthened, not abandoned.

Relapse is best understood as part of the recovery process for some people, not as a personal failure.

Q: How long does treatment take?

There is no single timeline that works for everyone.

People progress through treatment at different rates depending on their needs, circumstances, and supports. Research shows that longer engagement in treatment leads to better outcomes, and that short-term or one-time treatment is often insufficient.

Recovery is a process, not an event. Ongoing care—formal or informal—plays an important role.

Q: What kinds of treatment are available?

Effective addiction treatment may include:

• Behavioral therapies (individual, group, or family-based)

• Medications, when appropriate

• Treatment for co-occurring mental or physical health conditions

• Social, family, and recovery supports

Many people with substance use disorders also experience mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or trauma-related symptoms. Integrated care that addresses the whole person leads to better outcomes.

Treatment plans are most effective when they are individualized and flexible.

Q: How do I choose an Addiction Medicine doctor?

Look for a physician who is board-certified in Addiction Medicine, such as through the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM).

An Addiction Medicine physician should be able to:

• recognize substance use disorders at all stages

• offer evidence-based treatment options

• coordinate care across medical, mental health, and social services

• treat withdrawal safely and manage medical complications

• work respectfully with patients and families

You deserve care that is knowledgeable, compassionate, and non-judgmental.

Q: Can you get treatment for addiction if you don’t have health insurance?

Yes. Options are available even if you do not have health insurance.

In California, you can contact the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) for information about publicly funded treatment programs.

You can also call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for free, confidential referrals.

Some treatment programs offer sliding-scale fees or payment plans.

Q: How do mutual-support groups like AA fit in to treatment?

Many treatment programs encourage participation in mutual-support groups during and after formal treatment.

Groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provide peer support, community connection, and accountability. Research shows that participation in these groups is associated with improved outcomes for many people.

Different approaches work for different individuals. Mutual-support groups can be one part of a broader recovery plan.

Q: Are children at a genetic risk for addiction?

Genetics play a role in vulnerability to addiction, but genes do not determine destiny.

Research suggests that genetics may account for a significant portion of risk, but environment, stress, trauma, mental health, and access to support are equally important. Protective factors—such as stable relationships, emotional support, and early intervention—can reduce risk.

Q: How common is alcohol and drug use among teens?

Alcohol and drug use during adolescence remains a public health concern.

Early substance use is associated with increased risk of later problems, particularly because the brain continues to develop into early adulthood. Substance use can also increase the risk of accidents, academic difficulties, mental health challenges, and other harms.

Prevention, education, and supportive adult relationships are key protective factors.

Q: How can I tell if a teen is abusing alcohol and drugs?

Possible signs may include changes in:

• Physical health (fatigue, frequent illness, red or glazed eyes)

• Mood or behavior (irritability, withdrawal, sudden changes in personality)

• School engagement (declining grades, absences, loss of interest)

• Social relationships (new peer groups, isolation, legal issues)

No single sign confirms a problem, but patterns and changes over time are worth paying attention to. Early, supportive conversations can make a difference.

Q: What is a safe level of drinking?

For adults who choose to drink, low-risk guidelines define moderate use as:

• up to one drink per day for women and older adults

• up to two drinks per day for men

Some people should not drink at all, including:

• people who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant

• people taking certain medications

• people with certain medical conditions

• people in recovery

• anyone under 21

Q: Is my drinking risky drinking?

Many adults drink little or not at all. If you’re unsure about your drinking, the following questions can help you reflect:

• Have you ever felt you should cut down?

• Have others expressed concern?

• Have you felt guilt or regret about drinking?

• Have you used alcohol to cope with stress or discomfort?

Answering “yes” to one or more questions suggests it may be helpful to talk with a healthcare professional. Support is available, and early conversations can prevent more serious problems later.

A Final Note

If you are here because you’re seeking clarity, support, or information—for yourself or someone you care about—you are not alone. Addiction is treatable, recovery is possible, and help is available.