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Pastimes : Ask God -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: haqihana who wrote (32443)	1/26/2001 3:20:47 PM
From: Bluefish	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 39621

Regardless, alcoholism is commonly referred to as a disease. I disagree with that depiction in as far as it is not something that you catch from a toilet seat. However, it is well documented that once one becomes an alcoholic that there are physiological (not to mention psychological) changes in the body. Alcohol, like cocaine, makes you feel good by causing an excess amount of endorphins to be released. After years of alcohol abuse, the natural level of endorphins will be lower. I guess it all depends on the definition of a "disease"? My dictionary defines it as "A condition of ill health or malfunctioning in a living organism, especially one having particular symptoms". I don't know any genuinely honest ex-alcoholics who would strongly object to defining alcoholism as a disease using that criteria! Probably the realization by the medical community that alcoholism fits this definition was not the only reason for changing it's status though. I think it was more an effort to get it recognized as a disease in order for medical insurance to cover the expense of counseling and recovery programs. Additionally, referring to it as a disease may remove some of the social stigma and encourage some to seek treatment that would not otherwise. I wouldn't use such strong words that the "medical profession does not have a clue on how to treat alcoholism". Although they are probably not nearly as effective as those who have experienced the ravages of alcoholism personally. There is a lot to be said for having "walked a mile in another's shoes". Not that there aren't probably plenty of current and ex-alcoholic doctors, but that's another story. I know I don't know the history here of bad blood between everyone, but it seems to me that any method that can help a person who is bound by alcoholism; be it the medical profession, AA or whatever kind of self administered program mentioned, are all good things. Why does everyone seem to think that their way has to be the ONE and ONLY way? Why isn't it great whatever way one finds to get freed from the wretchedness of alcoholism? I would be interested in hearing more about this alternative way of staying free from alcohol. Something this helpful should be shared with the group. Bluefish