3 The idea that substance addiction is a disease is not, nevertheless, universal. Some would argue that dependency is not a disease because: Dependency is not transmissible or contagious. Dependency is not autoimmune, genetic, or degenerative. Dependency is self-acquired, implying the individual offers the condition to himself. Advocates of this way of thinking put far more focus on the social and ecological 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 an outcome of drug abuse.For example, it holds true that a lot of substance abuse starts with a choice (although oftentimes substance use began with a prescription from a doctor for a genuine medical problem and evolved into abuse). However while nobody forced an addicted individual to start misusing a substance, it's hard to picture someone would willingly destroy their health, relationships, and other significant areas of their lives.