An
extensive collection of resources for members of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
and other 12 Steppers in recovery, including articles, reviewed links,
book reviews, a free newsletter, etc.
Addiction
is a behavior, like drinking, gambling, eating, sex, using drugs, etc. that you
are unable to control on your own. Typically you have a craving for the
substance or behavior and, because you're addicted, you give in to it over and
over again, in spite of knowing better.
The
short answer is yes, addiction is a disease, particularly if you look at the
word in its parts: dis-ease. Addiction isn't a disease in the sense of a
cold or flu; you can't catch it from someone; it's not a bacteria or virus.
Instead, it's more like a chronic condition that may reappear after years of
abstaining if you don't take precautions.
Almost
anything or behavior! Typically addiction is to a substance like alcohol or
other drug or to a behavior like over or under eating, gambling or sex.
You
can tell by honestly looking at your behavior and the results your getting. If
the drug or behavior in question is causing problems in your life, the chances
are you're addicted.
Get
help! Addiction is tricky and impossible to deal with on your own. The most
successful way to get help is with a 12 Step group. There are other ways as
well.
