Topic: disease

A model generally supersedes other models not because it is perfect in every respect, but because it seems to explain certain aspects better than its predecessors.

We’re brought up to view a pattern of problems with alcohol or drugs as the result of a variety of other factors— psychological issues, or lack of willpower, or moral weakness, or some terrible past experience. That makes it difficult for most of us to switch over to the view of addiction as a chronic illness.

One large survey of alcoholics found that some 14% had actually become dependent within a year of the first drink. The percentage almost doubled when the time period was extended to two years.

Calling these diseases “behavioral illnesses” and calling our systems of care “behavioral health programs” promotes two destructive, harmful beliefs.

“We’re still stuck at the problem of definition. Until we agree on that, I don’t know how we can resolve it.” And not surprisingly, we didn’t.

Effects on learning and memory appear particularly important when the drinking occurred during adolescence, an ‘accelerated learning period’ for most of us.

If you’re happy with your program of recovery, find another therapist who believes in letting the client direct the course of therapy.

The medical professions have been dealing with alcoholism and alcoholics for thousands of years, and this experience has led to some pretty hard and fast views on the subject.

That’s because he’s better, but he’s still a long way from well.

Think of the genetic component as an inherited vulnerability — a predisposition. The more vulnerable you are, the better your chances of becoming an alcoholic.