Harmful Misconceptions About Substance Use & Addiction Debunked by Experts

1. Using prescription medications as directed by a doctor has no risk of leading to addiction

It's a common misconception that following a doctor's prescription eliminates the risk of addiction. Unfortunately, this is not the case, as according to the National Institute of Health, medications like opioids and benzodiazepines, which are commonly prescribed for pain and anxiety, carry a very high potential for dependency, even when they are taken as directed.^[2][3]

Using prescription medications as directed by a doctor does not eliminate the risk of addiction. While following a doctor's instructions reduces the likelihood of developing an addiction, certain medications can still be habit-forming even when taken as prescribed. Factors such as individual susceptibility, the type of medication, and the duration of use all play a role in the potential for addiction to develop.

For example, opioids prescribed for pain management are known to carry a significant risk of addiction, even when used as directed. Studies have shown that prolonged use of opioids can lead to physical dependence and addiction, regardless of adherence to prescribed dosages. ^[18]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Leslie Sanders

PsychD

As psychologist Dr. Leslie Sanders points out, certain factors, such as individual susceptibility and duration of use, play significant roles in developing a dependency. Research has tied specific genes to an increased susceptibility of developing an addiction to opioids. This means even if someone is taking their medication as prescribed, they might be unknowingly at higher risk of becoming dependent on the drug.^[4]

Addictions to prescription medications can come with serious consequences. As attorney Arja Shah states, "In my legal practice, I've seen cases where clients faced DUI charges after becoming dependent on prescribed painkillers." She notes how dependency can escalate rapidly, even with medical supervision.

Even using prescription medications as directed can lead to addiction. In my legal practice, I've seen cases where clients faced DUI charges after becoming dependent on prescribed painkillers; dependency can escalate rapidly, even with medical supervision. ^[19]

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Medical advisor

Arja Shah

Attorney

Monitoring prescription medications closely and exploring alternative treatments when possible is essential.

Even when used as directed, prescription medications can still pose a risk of addiction, particularly opioids and benzodiazepines. I've seen patients develop dependencies despite following medical advice, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring and alternative therapies. ^[20]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Ralph Waldo

MD

2. Alcohol is safer than other substances

Although alcohol is legal and socially accepted, it poses significant risks when abused. Since it is legal and very easy to access, more people use it leading to more people having an alcohol use disorder vs other substance use disorders. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 3 million people worldwide die annually from alcohol-related causes. In contrast, about 109,000 individuals die from opioid overdoses each year. Alcohol abuse can lead to liver disease, heart disease, and trauma. ^[21]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Chad D. Elkin

MD, FASAM, ABIM, ABPM

Alcohol's legality and social acceptance often lead to the false belief that it's safer than other substances. Yet, as Dr. Chad D. Elkin highlights, alcohol is responsible for millions of deaths annually due to conditions like liver disease and accidents, while only about 100,000 individuals die from opioid overdoses each year.

While moderate alcohol use might not harm everyone, alcohol's impact on physical and mental health can be profound, making its "safe" status more myth than reality.

Various surveys depict that alcohol is an easier drug to obtain than other drugs and somewhat more desirable. Hence, the associated risks are considerably lower. That is a thoughtful compromise, alcohol is deemed a psychoactive substance and easily attainable with addiction potential. It is also the cause of health problems and accidents. Reassessing the arguments surrounding alcohol can alter the overall attitude of society towards it. ^[22]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Courtney Scott

MD

3. An individual has to use drugs daily to be addicted

Addiction doesn’t always equate to daily use. Dependency can manifest in various patterns, including intermittent use.

Dr. Sanders explains that addiction is more about impaired control and risky behavior than frequency. She states, “Research shows that addiction alters brain circuits related to reward, stress, and self-control,” leading to intense “drug cravings and use that persist despite devastating consequences. Some addicted individuals with substance abuse disorder do not use it every day, yet their drug use controls their lives.”

The notion that one has to use drugs daily to be considered addicted is a misconception. Addiction is complex, with dependency manifesting in various ways. Simply looking at the frequency of use is an oversimplification.

Research shows that addiction alters brain circuits related to reward, stress, and self-control. These changes lead to intense drug cravings and use that persist despite devastating consequences. Some addicted individuals do not use every day, yet their drug use controls their lives. ^[18]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Leslie Sanders

PsychD

Dr. Sanders commented on a patient who “used heroin only on weekends,” but when he did use, “he was unable to control his intake… his weekdays were consumed with thoughts of using again, … and his drug use led to losing his job and friends.”

Understanding addiction as a spectrum rather than a daily habit can shift societal perceptions and promote earlier intervention.

I've dealt with many patients who might not use substances daily but still exhibit signs of dependency. In orthopedics, some athletes I've treated would use prescribed drugs only during events or training but developed a reliance that affected their performance and health. ^[23]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Robert McLaughlin

MD

4. Experimenting with drugs or alcohol is harmless

Experimenting with substances might seem harmless, but even initial use can lead to significant consequences.

As Dr. Courtney Scott explains, substances alter brain chemistry, potentially setting the stage for addiction. This is due to the release of feel-good chemicals associated with drug use, like dopamine and serotonin, that feed the cycle of addiction.

It would be wrong to say that using any kind of substance be it drugs, or alcohol is a completely harmless act as the risks always remain. When a person tries new drugs for the first time, it can cause a change in brain chemistry and a person will have a higher chance of developing patterns and such a habit that makes them addicted to it. ^[22]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Courtney Scott

MD

Research into how drug experimentation can go wrong for adolescents found that an imbalance in the brain resulting from weak executive control and heightened reward-seeking puts certain adolescents at greater risk of developing drug abuse issues down the line.^[5]

What begins as a one-time experiment can become a harmful pattern for some users, and unfortunately, there’s no way to know if that will happen to you. This highlights the importance of avoiding substances altogether to eliminate the risk of developing a dependency.

Experimentation can lead to addiction or other serious consequences. The risk varies based on factors like genetics and environment. Even seemingly harmless experimentation can have lasting impacts. ^[24]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Paul Daidone

MD

5. Addiction is purely a matter of choice and self-control

This myth is particularly damaging to individuals with substance abuse disorders.

Addiction rewires the brain’s reward system, making it more than a matter of willpower and an actual physical and chemical change that creates a dependency on the drug to feel “normal.”^[6]

As Dr. Ralph Waldo points out, it involves a complex interplay of genetics, environment, and neurobiology. He notes how, in his practice, he’s treated patients “...whose addictions were deeply rooted in biochemical imbalances and psychological triggers, requiring custom interventions for recovery.”

The idea that addiction is solely a matter of choice ignores the complex interplay of genetics, environment, and neurobiology. In my practice, I've treated individuals whose addictions were deeply rooted in biochemical imbalances and psychological triggers, requiring custom interventions for recovery. ^[20]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Ralph Waldo

MD

Viewing addiction as a choice adds shame and can discourage individuals from seeking help when they need it most.

The causes of addiction are complex and multifactorial, including heredity, environment, and, of course, the individual’s mindset. It also changes the brain's biochemistry, which influences reasoning, inhibition, and craving. While determination helps, it is more than just my will. Integrated rehabilitation goes beyond drugs to include interventions such as psychotherapy and support groups to provide lasting resolution. ^[25]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Michelle Dees

PsychD

6. An individual who can work or fulfill daily responsibilities isn’t truly addicted

Many individuals with addiction can maintain work and responsibilities. This is known as high-functioning addiction. However, this doesn't mean they aren't struggling... ^[24]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Paul Daidone

MD

The stereotype of addiction as a "life-ruining" force suggests it only affects those who hit rock bottom, but this simply isn't true. Addiction exists on a spectrum, and many individuals—often referred to as "high-functioning addicts"—can maintain work, family responsibilities, and social lives while secretly battling addiction. ^[7]

As Elvis Rosales, LCSW, explains this misconception can be particularly harmful, as those affected might deny their struggles or hesitate to seek help because “they don't fit the 'typical' image of addiction."

This misconception stems from the stereotype of addiction as a “life-ruining” force that makes people incapable of functioning. However, addiction exists on a spectrum, and some individuals may manage to function in their daily lives while still facing addiction’s grip.

These individuals might be high-functioning, managing to go to work, keep up with family responsibilities, or socialize with friends, all while secretly struggling. In many cases, the person might be in denial because they don’t fit the typical image of addiction. This myth can delay people from recognizing their need for help, as they may not see themselves as “addicted” or worry others won’t take their struggles seriously. ^[26]

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Medical advisor

Elvis Rosales

LCSW

By recognizing addiction's varied manifestations, we can encourage earlier intervention and support for those who may otherwise suffer in silence.

7. Individuals with addiction prioritize substances over their loved ones

Addiction often leads to behavior that prioritizes substances over loved ones, but does this really mean those with substance abuse care less about their loved ones?

Addiction can lead individuals to act in ways that prioritize substance use, but this behavior is often driven by the neurological changes addiction causes rather than a lack of care for loved ones. ^[24]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Paul Daidone

MD

According to the experts, this belief receives a resounding no. What they all agreed on is that substance abuse alters brain functioning, making obtaining and using substances their number one priority, but this doesn’t mean individuals care less about their loved ones.

As Dr. Max Doshay notes, “While it may seem this way, addiction alters brain function … [and] This isn’t a reflection of the person’s love or care for others.”

While it may seem this way, addiction alters brain function, making obtaining and using substances a priority. This isn’t a reflection of the person’s love or care for others. ^[27]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Max Doshay

DClinPsych

Recognizing substance abuse as a neurological condition rather than a lack of love can help foster compassion and understanding.

8. Once a person is addicted, there’s no real way to change their behavior

Recovery is not only possible—it’s common with the right support.

Dr. Sanders emphasizes that “evidence-based treatments,” such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication-assisted treatment, can help individuals overcome addiction and lead “more fulfilling lives.”

The belief that addiction is an untreatable disease is pervasive yet misguided. While addiction can certainly be tenacious, decades of research demonstrate that meaningful and lasting behavior change is possible. With evidence-based treatment, commitment, and support, individuals can overcome substance use disorders and regain control over their lives.

We must reject cynicism and invest in recovery. Though difficult, change is attainable if we meet people where they are and offer the right tools. My clinical experience confirms that with an open mind and the right help, people can transform addictive behaviors and live more fulfilling lives. ^[18]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Leslie Sanders

PsychD

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recovery statistics from 2023, about 70% of people with substance abuse disorders consider themselves to be in recovery or to have recovered from their drug or alcohol use problem. ^[8]

Recovery is possible with appropriate treatment and support. Many people successfully manage their addiction and live fulfilling lives. ^[27]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Max Doshay

DClinPsych

Recovery is an attainable goal and not a hopeless battle.

9. Only people from certain backgrounds or lifestyles become addicted

Addiction does not discriminate. While certain demographics may have higher rates of substance abuse, addiction can impact anyone regardless of their background or lifestyle. The belief that only certain types of people can become addicted is misguided and perpetuates harmful stereotypes. ^[18]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Leslie Sanders

PsychD

“Addiction does not discriminate.” It affects individuals from all backgrounds, Dr. Sanders points out, ranging from the wealthy entrepreneur to the school teacher.

Interestingly, there’s some research stating that those with higher incomes and higher education levels may use alcohol more frequently, likely due to higher amounts of extra income.^[9]

Addiction does not discriminate. It affects people from all backgrounds, lifestyles, and demographics. While certain factors like genetics, trauma, and environmental stress may increase the risk of developing addiction, it’s a condition that can impact anyone… Embracing a view of addiction as a universal challenge that anyone could face helps break down biases and creates a more understanding, supportive community for those in recovery. ^[26]

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Medical advisor

Elvis Rosales

LCSW

Stereotyping addiction as a problem for specific groups can perpetuate stigma and prevent people from seeking help. Recognizing that addiction is a universal challenge can create a more supportive environment for those in recovery.

10. Only high-cost, long-term residential rehab can effectively treat addiction

The idea that only expensive, long-term residential rehab can effectively treat addiction is a harmful misconception. While such programs are valuable for some, they are far from the only effective option.

Effective treatment varies by individual. While some benefit from residential rehab, others find success through outpatient programs, therapy, and support groups. ^[24]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Paul Daidone

MD

Dr. Paul Daidone emphasizes that treatment should be tailored to the individual, with many “finding success through outpatient programs, therapy, and support groups” like Alcoholics Anonymous or SMART Recovery.^[10][11]

These options often provide the flexibility and affordability needed to make recovery more accessible.

Effective addiction treatment doesn't only come from costly rehab programs. Many clients benefit from outpatient programs and counseling, showing diverse paths to recovery. ^[19]

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Medical advisor

Arja Shah

Attorney

Attorney Arja Shah highlights that “diverse paths to recovery exist,” making treatment accessible to those with different needs and resources. Affordable options, such as sliding-scale therapy, community-based programs, and telehealth counseling, are increasingly available.

Recovery is not one-size-fits-all, and the growing variety of accessible treatments ensures that more people can get the help they need, regardless of financial and other constraints.

11. Only those at ‘rock bottom’ need rehab

Waiting for "rock bottom" can delay crucial treatment.

Early intervention can be more effective. One doesn’t need to hit rock bottom just to benefit from treatment. ^[27]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Max Doshay

DClinPsych

As Dr. Doshay explains, “early intervention can be more effective.” Studies have shown that early intervention can help prevent substance abuse from escalating. ^[12]

The earlier you identify a substance use problem, the better chance you have at overcoming it.

12. Professional treatment isn’t necessary if you’re determined to quit

While determination is an essential part of recovery, professional treatment is often critical for addressing the complex neurological and psychological aspects of addiction that can be challenging to manage alone.

Research consistently shows that professional interventions significantly enhance recovery outcomes and reduce the likelihood of relapse.^[13]

Dr. Chad D. Elkin underscores the effectiveness of approaches such as medication-assisted therapy and counseling, which target the physical and emotional components of addiction.

Similarly, Dr. Waldo highlights the value of integrative treatments that combine medical and therapeutic support, providing a holistic approach that significantly improves the chances of long-term success.

While personal determination is crucial, addiction often involves physiological and psychological dependencies that are difficult to overcome without professional help. I've seen integrative approaches, combining medical and therapeutic support, offer holistic solutions that significantly improve outcomes. ^[20]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Ralph Waldo

MD

13. Addiction recovery is only about abstaining from substances

Recovery is about much more than abstaining from substances—it’s a holistic process that impacts every aspect of life.

Recovery involves more than just abstinence. In orthopedics, it's about rehabilitation, building strength, and focusing on overall health improvements. The same all-encompassing approach should apply to addiction recovery—support systems, mental health tools, and physical well-being are key. ^[23]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Robert McLaughlin

MD

As Dr. Robert McLaughlin explains, “Just as physical rehabilitation involves [re]building strength” and improving overall health, addiction recovery requires a similar comprehensive approach. This comprehensive approach includes improving emotional well-being, addressing mental health challenges, and rebuilding relationships and physical health components.

True recovery is more than just not using drugs or alcohol. To stop using a drug is an important first step, but it is the first step only.

Everybody has hope for recovery and a sense of dignity in their life which needs to be improved through a number of ways like rebuilding life around dreams, aspirations, capacities, improving emotions and relationships, etc. It means changes in personality and focuses on developing all the areas of well-being one can imagine. ^[28]

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Medical advisor

Sean O’Neill

LMFT

Sean O’Neill, LMFT, emphasizes that recovery is about creating a life filled with hope, dignity, and purpose. It involves nurturing personal growth, redefining aspirations, and developing healthier habits.

Recovery is as complex as addiction itself; the same factors that contribute to developing a substance use disorder are often at play in the recovery process...

While abstaining from substances is the essential first step, recovery also involves creating a supportive environment, distancing from people or places that may trigger use, and rebuilding the aspects of life impacted by substance abuse. Each of these steps is fundamental to long-term recovery. ^[21]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Chad D. Elkin

MD, FASAM, ABIM, ABPM

Dr. Elkin agrees that by building a supportive environment, avoiding triggers, and engaging with resources (like medical providers, counselors, and support groups) many individuals can achieve long-term recovery.

Together, these steps help individuals stay substance-free and thrive in all areas.

14. Support from friends and family alone Is enough to maintain recovery

Support is crucial but often needs to be supplemented with professional help, like counseling or therapy, to address underlying issues. Experts, of course, know how to handle different scenarios you might find difficult to face on your own. ^[27]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Max Doshay

DClinPsych

While the love and care of friends and family provide a vital emotional foundation for recovery, they are not always enough to address the complexities of addiction. Professional support is essential for tackling the deeper psychological, behavioral, and neurological aspects that loved ones may not be equipped to manage. As Sean O’Neil explains.

Even though the love and care of one’s family and friends are the greatest source of emotional boost, professional help is needed to solve the various manifestations of addiction.

A therapist, a support group, or a peer counselor will help with some insights that friends or family do not have. With so many things in place, an individual will be equipped with the various things required for the lifetime maintenance of recovery. ^[28]

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Medical advisor

Sean O’Neill

LMFT

Combining the emotional support of loved ones with professional guidance is the key to success and having a more comprehensive and sustainable recovery.

15. Relapse means failure and lack of commitment to recovery

Relapse should be viewed as a potential part of the recovery process rather than a failure. In holistic medicine, setbacks are opportunities for deeper understanding and adjustment of treatment plans, reinforcing the journey to sustainable recovery. ^[20]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Ralph Waldo

MD

Relapse is a common part of recovery, impacting 40-60% of individuals, and doesn’t signify failure. ^[14]

Dr. Waldo explains that “setbacks are opportunities for deeper understanding and adjustment[s] of treatment plans,” reinforcing long-term progress. Sean O’Neill, LMFT, adds that relapses can help individuals identify triggers and strengthen their commitment to sobriety.

...it is crucial to not forget that relapsing is not a failure, instead, it is a chance in the recovery process that many of us face. If viewed as a chance to enhance their pledge of recovery and resolve, it enables individuals to avoid having to experience the occurrence again. ^[28]

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Medical advisor

Sean O’Neill

LMFT

Recovery is a process; resilience, not perfection, leads to lasting success. Even after a setback, each step forward is a step closer to sustainable recovery.

16. After completing rehab, someone should be ‘cured’ of addiction

The experts all agreed that addiction is not something that can be "cured" after rehab—it's a chronic condition that requires ongoing management.

Addiction is a chronic condition. Rehab is a step in the ongoing process of managing and maintaining recovery. ^[27]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Max Doshay

DClinPsych

As Dr. Doshay points out, rehab is a milestone, not a cure. Sustained recovery depends on continuous support, therapeutic counseling, and relapse prevention strategies.

is only one of the many steps in the larger recovery path. Therapeutic counseling, focus, and ongoing cognizance are necessities… Only regular commitment can prevent relapsing and enduring temptation in the future." citation="28" shortbio="0"]

Sean O'Neill, LMFT, highlights the need for focus and ongoing commitment to navigate triggers and maintain progress, while Gary Tucker underscores the importance of monitoring and long-term therapy to prevent relapse. Recovery is a lifelong journey.

Addiction is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. Continuous support, monitoring, and sometimes ongoing therapy helps maintain recovery and prevent relapse. ^[29]

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Medical advisor

Gary Tucker

Licensed Psychotherapist

Continuous support, therapy, and relapse prevention strategies are essential for sustained recovery.

17. Experiencing withdrawal smptoms means treatment isn’t working

Withdrawal symptoms are a natural and expected part of the recovery process, not a sign that treatment is failing.

Dr. Doshay emphasizes that these symptoms reflect the body adjusting to the absence of substance dependence. Steve Carleton, LCSW, CAS, adds that managing withdrawal effectively is critical to achieving long-term recovery.

... It is very important to bear in mind the need to successfully control or extinguish withdrawal signs and symptoms as part of the achievement of the final objective… Therapy and medical treatment are necessary to face these aspects and maintain long-term results. ^[30]

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Medical advisor

Steve Carleton

LCSW, CAS

Therapy, medical treatment, and a holistic approach are key to addressing these symptoms and ensuring lasting progress. A great way to look at it is withdrawal signifies the beginning of healing, not failure.

18. Only people with diagnosed mental health disorders are at risk of developing addictions

While co-occurring mental health disorders can increase the risk, anyone can develop an addiction due to factors like stress, trauma, or exposure to substances. ^[24]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Paul Daidone

MD

While individuals with mental health conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, or depression are at a higher risk of developing addiction, addiction can affect anyone. ^[17] Dr. Paul Daidone explains that “factors like stress, trauma, [and] exposure to substances” make addiction a universal challenge, not one confined to those with diagnosed mental illnesses.

Gary Tucker emphasizes that while mental health conditions can increase vulnerability, addiction doesn’t discriminate—anyone can be affected.

Anyone can develop an addiction. However, those with mental health conditions are more vulnerable, and treatment should address both issues concurrently. ^[29]

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Medical advisor

Gary Tucker

Licensed Psychotherapist

Successful recovery often requires treating the mental health condition and the substance use disorder concurrently, ensuring a holistic and sustainable path to healing.

19. Detoxing on your own is safe as long as it’s planned

Self-detox can be a dangerous task, and that is why it is recommended to seek professional assistance. Withdrawal detox leads to drastic physiological changes which may be hard to undergo without an expert's assistance… ^[30]

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Medical advisor

Steve Carleton

LCSW, CAS

Detoxing without medical supervision can be extremely dangerous, particularly for substances like alcohol or benzodiazepines, which can cause severe and even life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures, convulsions, or psychotic symptoms.^[15][3]

Detoxing without medical supervision can be dangerous, especially for substances like alcohol and benzodiazepines, which can cause severe withdrawal symptoms. Medical supervision ensures safety and comfort. ^[29]

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Medical advisor

Gary Tucker

Licensed Psychotherapist

Gary Tucker stresses that professional oversight not only ensures safety but also helps provide comfort during this critical stage of recovery.

Seeking professional assistance is essential for a safe and effective detox process, minimizing the risk of complications from detox, easing withdrawal symptoms, and increasing the likelihood of long-term success.

20. Withdrawal symptoms are mostly mental, not physical

Withdrawal's physical aspects can be intense. I've seen patients wean off long-term pain management medications and suffer physically, which underscores the need to address both mental and physical aspects during withdrawal for comprehensive care. ^[23]

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Medical advisor

Dr. Robert McLaughlin

MD

Withdrawal often involves severe physical symptoms that can vary depending on the substance. Common symptoms of withdrawal include an elevated heart rate, sweating, loss of appetite, and nausea or vomiting. ^[16]

Although mental symptoms can occur (like anxiety, agitation, irritability, or, in extreme cases, psychosis) physical symptoms are equally as likely to occur.

The statement regarding withdrawal effects is harsh, as it emphasizes the impact of addiction on the individual. Some mental and cognitive functions can deteriorate during the sixth step, which can lead to relapse, depression, and anxiety…

Disregarding the body's side effects is quite dangerous because physical therapy is needed to eliminate the chances of severe complications after stopping the substances. Such therapy would be required for all substances regardless of how severe they might be. ^[30]

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Medical advisor

Steve Carleton

LCSW, CAS

As Steve Carleton explains, managing physical and mental symptoms requires medical and therapeutic interventions to ensure safety and success.

This is why getting the support of a physician and mental health provider is crucial to detoxing appropriately.

Final thoughts

Substance abuse and addiction impact millions of people worldwide, yet misconceptions about these conditions are rampant, hindering progress in understanding, treatment, and recovery for those affected. From the belief that addiction is simply a matter of willpower to the myth that only certain people are at risk, these dangerous misconceptions perpetuate stigma and discourage those affected from seeking help.

As the experts highlighted, addiction is a complex, multifaceted disease requiring a holistic approach to recovery. It’s not about one-size-fits-all solutions or simple fixes—rather, it’s about addressing the physical, psychological, and social factors that contribute to substance use.

Whether it’s providing medical support during detox, addressing co-occurring mental health conditions, or ensuring ongoing counseling and relapse prevention, recovery is a journey that involves a network of support.

Dispelling these myths is crucial to developing compassion and creating an environment where individuals feel empowered to seek help. Addiction is not a personal failure but a challenge that can be overcome with the right resources and support. There is always help available.