By Buddy TBuddy T is a writer and founding member of the Online Al-Anon Outreach Committee with decades of experience writing about alcoholism. Because he is a member of a support group that stresses the importance of anonymity at the public level, he does not use his photograph or his real name on this website. Take a look at the Alcohol Abuse Screening Quiz to see how symptoms compare. After overcoming her own struggles with addiction, she began working in the treatment field in 2012. She graduated from Palm Beach State College in 2016 with additional education in Salesforce University programs. A part of the Banyan team since 2016, Alyssa brings over 5 years of experience in the addiction treatment field.

• Once seen as a moral failure, addiction has more recently been viewed strictly as a medical problem.
• Some people believe that alcohol addiction should not be classified as a disease, arguing that drinking alcohol is a personal choice.
• At Louisville Recovery Center, our mission is to provide individuals with the tools and resources they need to achieve lasting recovery and improve their overall quality of life….
• Like many other substance use disorders, alcohol use disorder is a chronic and sometimes relapsing condition that reflects changes in the brain.
• Moreover, American Medical Association counts alcoholism as a disease under both medical and psychiatric sections.
• Friends gather for after-work drinks, spouses have cocktails together for “date nights” or some may just be in the habit of ending the day with a beer or a glass of wine—or two—or more.

Why is Alcoholism Considered a Chronic Disease?

Remember that they deserve a happy life and that achieving long-term recovery is within reach. Alcoholism is considered a brain disease because it affects the way the brain operates, causing symptoms such as compulsive behavior and intense cravings. It disrupts a person’s ability to think critically, make rational decisions and function normally. Many people say that you can never become an alcoholic if you choose to never drink Alcoholics Anonymous alcohol.

Relapse

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcoholism, it is important to seek professional help to why is alcoholism considered a chronic disease manage the condition and prevent relapse. Relapse can occur for many reasons, including stress, social pressure, and emotional triggers. Individuals who relapse often experience guilt and shame, which can lead to further drinking. Withdrawal symptoms are a common occurrence in individuals who are dependent on alcohol. In severe cases, withdrawal symptoms can lead to seizures and delirium tremens, which can be life-threatening.

• Recognizing this transition is crucial, as it represents a critical window for intervention before the condition progresses to the chronic phase of addiction.
• They may also feel helpless and frustrated as they try to support their loved ones through the recovery process.
• People with alcoholism may drink to cope with uncomfortable emotions or try to self-medicate underlying mental health issues.
• Alcoholism is a chronic disease that requires a multifaceted approach to treatment.
• We offer continuing care and alumni programs to help you thrive in recovery.

Navigating Recovery with a Dual Diagnosis

They can opt for a treatment program because substance use disorders require medical supervision and professional treatment. The steps for understanding and treating alcohol abuse aren’t as straightforward, demanding a deeper dive into the murky waters of the illness paradigm of alcoholism. Remember, recovery from alcoholism is a journey and requires ongoing management. With the right support and treatment, individuals can overcome their addiction and live a fulfilling life in sobriety. It is never too late to seek help and make positive changes for your health and well-being. So, if you or someone you know is struggling with alcoholism, do not hesitate to reach out for help.

The American Psychiatric Association recognizes the existence of alcoholism as the equivalent of alcohol dependence. The American Hospital Association, the American Public Health Association, the National Association of Social Workers, and the American College of Physicians classify alcoholism as a disease. When this happens, research shows, alcoholics and addicts have a reduced ability to control their powerful impulse to use the substance, even when they are aware it is not in their best interest.

His early initiation into drinking at the tender age of 10 or 11, surrounded by older peers, marks the beginning of a path tread by countless others. Family Behavioral Therapy (FBT) involves family members in the treatment process. This approach can improve communication, reduce conflict, and strengthen the support network essential for recovery.