When you hear the word “addict,” what pops into mind? Is it a crack addict, cowering in the street? Is it a heroin addict, shooting up? Or is it an angry alcoholic? Is the addict male? Are they out of money, and has their family abandoned them? Are they old or young? Does addiction show in their face and physique? Are they still in possession of a house and car, and do they have custody of their children? An addict, regardless of their substance of choice, doesn’t necessarily possess any of these traits.

The development of an addiction is not directly associated with lack of education, money, or resources, though those characteristics might seem like a common trait of an addict. One of the most common questions a parent, friend, family member will ask themselves, is “How did this happen?” They might blame themselves for not having done enough, not having provided enough support.

Since opioid addiction has become so prevalent in the United States, it’s especially important to remember that painkillers can contribute to just about anyone’s addiction, even if someone is exposed to opioids innocently, through a doctor. So many addicts are exposed to strong painkillers without knowing that the next place they’ll be is struggling with addiction.

There are many associated stereotypes that accompany the general conception of an addict. What’s important to remember is that addiction is not always apparent. Addicts can be high functioning, or able to carry on the facade of a normal life, while continuing to use. They can appear to be perfectly healthy and carry on with what appears to be a normal, unaffected life. This can sometimes mean than an addict can go on for years being addicted, with little to indicate that they’re in need of help, allowing them to be addicted without any outside intervention. And that can be incredibly dangerous to everyone involved.