Is addiction to drugs and
alcohol a disease?
Addiction is regarded as being
a disease, much to the dismay of many people, particularly those who do not see
addiction of any kind in the same light as disease, the way we normally
understand it.
Perhaps the current definition
of addiction in terms of being a disease entity, refers directly to an earlier
expression, derived from an obsolete, old-French language word, dis-aise or
translated more literally, as dis-ease, (1) which suggests that the human body
has a lack of ease or a feeling of discomfort, that it seeks to resolve in
some way.
Addictions of any kind create a
state of dis-ease or un-easiness in the human body. In other words,
regardless of the cause, the human body is not in its normal state of
homoeostasis or balance. Something is awry.
When a person is addicted to
drugs or alcohol, the body has a dependency and an increasing craving
for something to which it has become accustomed. In fact, the body
has begun to rely more and more upon it. Attempting to reduce the
amount of drugs, alcohol or any other addictive substance, results in an
ever-growing desire, craving or longing for more.
Disease suggests pathology. There are numerous causes for pathological conditions. Pathology suggests
the presence of symptoms that require treatment because the human body is
experiencing an adverse effect of some kind.
Addiction manifests
symptoms and withdrawal symptoms depending upon what one is addicted to or
attempting to withdraw from, at any time. A person can be addicted to more than
one substance at the same time and thus, demonstrate an addictive personality
type.
To continue to satisfy the
body’s cravings or needs with something that is potentially harmful or even lethal
leads to concern, because of serious health issues and potential medical
implications. Drug and alcohol abuse can be dangerous both to oneself and
to others.
Addiction does not bring
healing, health and wholeness to any part of the physical body much less the
body organs or various systems that allow the body to function properly.
Attempting to satisfy oneself in this way only leads to more cravings and
increases the likelihood of future health problems. It has serious mental
health implications, as well.
Addiction is not the result of
an infection of any kind and it is not contagious. There are genetic
implications, as well as other factors that lead to addiction. These can
include social, stress or environmental factors. There are also serious, genetic
implications with regard to children born in the future.
Arguing that it is all right to
abuse drugs or alcohol because one has a disease, is rooted in a lack of
understanding with regard to the nature of addiction. Anyone who is aware that
he or she has an addiction to drugs or alcohol, should seek immediate, professional medical
advice and counseling.
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