Definition of Addiction:

Addiction is a brain disease – as real as the disease of cancer, diabetes or hypertension. Addiction is a progressive, fatal, incurable disease characterized by compulsive use, loss of control over use, and continued use despite negative consequences. The progression of the disease can be recognized by an increase in frequency, quantity and severity of consequences. People die from addiction in many ways - through overdose, motor vehicle accidents, and suicide. While it is incurable it may be brought into a state of remission through abstinence and a rigorous program of supported recovery.

Some addicts suffer from “process addictions”. These people are “getting high” from certain behaviors. Sex, binging and purging, restricting, gambling, spending – all of these behaviors can become addictions. Unlike cocaine or heroin the mind and mood altering chemicals are released in the addict’s own brain. The craving is real – the consequences are real and, as many family members know, the pain and shame are immense. Intervention is a viable solution in these cases.

Some Aspects of Addiction
Denial
The insistence by the addict that there is no problem. It has been said that alcoholics and addicts are incapable of seeing the consequences of their addiction. This is why Intervention is the best tool for initiating treatment. Another form of denial is recognizing there is a problem and believing nothing can be done about it. Again, intervention can successfully confront this excuse.

Physical Dependence
Alcohol and other drug use sometimes leads to physical dependence. Medical detoxification and stabilization is often necessary, and needs to be considered in the choice of treatment center.

Enabling
Family members acting from love some times get between the addict and the consequences of the addiction. Often times parents may feel it is better to let a child who is acting out with drugs or alcohol stay in the house because at least they know where they are. This is an example of enabling. Enabling can be the biggest deterrent to an addict seeking or getting help. Enabling allows the addict to keep using despite the consequences by shielding them from those consequences. The enabler needs to confront their own feelings toward the addict so that they can successfully take part in a professional intervention to help their loved one, friend or coworker. Gallant & Associates have the experience in helping individuals work through codependency and enabling.