Understanding Addiction: Professionals Definition of “Addiction”

It is often difficult for someone that is suffering from addiction, substance abuse, or chemical dependency to understand or admit that they have a problem. By nature, the definition of addiction seems to suggest that a person suffering from addiction is unlikely to–initially, believe they have a problem. There are always justifications and narratives a person can conjure to excuse themselves from behavior that when viewed in another person, would look more like addiction to them. Sometimes, even that is difficult as many family members refuse to admit a loved one has an issue with substances. That is why it is crucial to

Definition of Addiction and the word “Addict”

The definition of addiction according to ASAM is “Addiction is a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences.”

It can be as difficult, if not more difficult, for the family and loved ones of that person to admit the problem. The words “addict” and “alcoholic” can carry negative connotations, so people can often shut down based on shame, guilt, anger, and/or embarrassment at being classified as such.

However, it is vital for someone suffering from a substance use disorder as well as for their family and loved ones to understand that addiction is a disease because the earlier someone gets help or intervened upon, the earlier the disease can be arrested, treated, and put into remission while the person begins their recovery.

Recovery Care Partner was founded on the strong desire for our team to help individuals and families whose loved ones are suffering from addiction. Contact Recovery Care Partner today.