“Addiction is the avoidance of inside issues by focusing on bogus causes outside of oneself to explain why things are the way they are.” ~ unknown

In the mid-1950s the AMA (American Medical Association) declared that alcoholism, i.e. addiction, is a “disease.”  As such, it has symptoms that tells us it is present, a progression that, if untreated, will get worse and shave years off of its victim’s life. There is a treatment which will arrest the progression and, if followed, will result in a healthier person. I believe it’s more than a disease. I call addiction a “phenomenon” – it has physical, emotional, social and spiritual implications as well. Addiction has significant and negative consequences, not only the person who has it, but every relationship they have including, their relationship with their Higher Power/God, their relationship with themselves and with others. Think about it – anyone who avoids dealing with their “inside issues” and focuses on the unreal and needs to chase the why of their behavior is pretty disconnected, don’t you think? Additionally the addict frequently avoids responsibility for themselves and is controlling, often manipulating by guilt and fear.

 Recovery is possible but outside help is needed. Do you know the first word of the first step of Alcoholics Anonymous? It’s “We…” Recovery is not a solo experience. If you need help in recovering from an addiction, recovery for yourself or from the effects of growing up or living with an addict, please contact me.

Peace, John