Stigma

In ancient Greece a stigma was a branding applied to criminals. Other people would see the stigma and know that the person was a criminal. In our contemporary society there is a severe stigma associated with drug use and alcoholism. Drug Addiction is often seen as a moral failing and associated with theft, and other illegal behaviours.

The medical fraternity now generally agrees that addiction is an illness and not a moral failing as a result of poor self will. This helps to destigmatize the illness, which makes it a lot easier for people to admit they have a problem. This of course makes it more likely that addicts and alcoholics will seek help.

Characteristics

Addiction is characteristed by compulsive drug use, craving in the absence of drugs, and drug seeking behaviour. Drug addiction implies that the sufferer is dependent on drugs, but dependency is not enough on its own to diagnose addiction. For example: somebody who is prescribed an anti-depressant by a doctor becomes dependent on the drug to maintain his/her mood but would not be classed as an addict.

In laymans terms a drug addict is somebody who uses drugs no matter how bad the consequences are and has great difficulty in stopping using drugs.

There are two forms of dependencey: physical and psychological. Physical dependency refers to the way that the human body adapts to expect the presence of the drug and has become accustomed to it. If the person discontinues using the drug (which the body now expects to be present) the symptoms of withdrawal will manifest.

Psychological dependency refers to the manner in which a person becomes psychologically accustomed to using the drug as a coping mechanism. Such people feel that without the effect of the drug they are not able to live life or function normally. Discontinuing the drug in these circumstances will result in intense cravings as the person feels anxious and "lost" without the psychological crutch. This is particularly bad in times of stress and novel situations.

Addicts will usually have some combination of both forms of dependency.

Good news!

Although many professionals believe that addiction can never be completely cured there is an abundance of evidence to show that it can at least be treated. Some drug treatment facilities claim to offer a 100% cure, but such claims should be viewed with skepticism as they may be marketing ploys rather than scientifically validated fact.

Treatment at a drug rehab or alcohol detox facility is not the only way in which addicts and alcoholics can lead productive lives. Attendance at 12 step fellowships is a way of life that is keeping millions of people "clean and sober".

We are lucky to be living in a progressive age. Only 50 or 60 years ago alcoholics were locked up in psychiatric hospitals and subjected to treatment that seems abhorrent by todays standards. Improved techniques and understanding has led to effective treatment strategies.