3 The concept that compound addiction is an illness is not, however, universal. Some would argue that dependency is not an illness since: Dependency is not transmissible or contagious. Dependency is not autoimmune, genetic, or degenerative. Addiction is self-acquired, suggesting the individual offers the condition to himself. Proponents of this way of thinking put a lot more emphasis on the social and environmental factors of addictionone supporter declares that dependencies may be "treated" by locking addicts in a cell where there is no access to substancesinstead of on the brain changes that happen as a result of drug abuse.For example, it holds true that a lot of compound abuse starts with a choice (although in lots of cases compound use began with a prescription from a physician for a real medical issue and evolved into abuse). However while nobody required an addicted person to begin misusing a substance, it's tough to envision someone would voluntarily destroy their health, relationships, and other significant locations of their lives.