3 The idea that compound dependency is an illness is not, however, universal. Some would argue that dependency is not an illness due to the fact that: Addiction is not transmissible or infectious. Dependency is not autoimmune, hereditary, or degenerative. Dependency is self-acquired, suggesting the individual offers the condition to himself. Proponents of this method of thinking put a lot more focus on the social and ecological aspects of addictionone proponent claims that dependencies might be "treated" by locking addicts in a cell where there is no access to substancesinstead of on the brain changes that occur as a result of substance abuse.For example, it is real that the majority of substance abuse begins with a choice (although in most cases substance use began with a prescription from a medical professional for a genuine medical problem and evolved into abuse). But while no one required an addicted person to begin misusing a substance, it's tough to think of somebody would willingly ruin their health, relationships, and other major locations of their lives.