Some people simply can't understand why a drug addict is a drug addict. Why, after all of the consequences, does the person continue to use drugs? Children are distraught over their mother’s continued meth use. Wives are fed up with their husband’s continued drinking. The answer lies, in part, in the brain.

One question I have been asked over and over when working with families of individuals that have substance use disorders is, “Why don’t they just stop?”. People that do not understand addiction are quick to judge and often believe it is all about willpower and simply putting the bottle or needle down.

When faced with the dilemma of how to help individuals in recovery, I think it’s important that we first recognize the difference in recovery and sobriety. Although these words may be used synonymously, I urge you to consider these differences.