Are alcoholism and drug addiction diseases?
Yes, alcoholism and drug addiction are diseases. The craving that an alcoholic or addict feels can be as strong as the need for food or water. An alcoholic or addict will continue to use a substance despite serious family, health or legal problems. Like many other diseases, alcoholism and drug addiction are chronic conditions, meaning that they last a person’s lifetime, usually follow a predictable course and have symptoms. The risk for developing alcoholism or drug addiction is influenced both by a person’s genes and by his or her lifestyle. Q: If an alcoholic is unwilling to get help, what can you do about it? A: This can be a challenge. If the alcoholic or addict is destructive to himself or others, it may be necessary to file for an involuntary commitment, which is a court order for the person to receive treatment. But you don’t have to wait for someone to hit rock bottom to act. Many addiction treatment specialists suggest the following steps to help an alcoholic or addict get tre
