Alcoholism or Alcohol Addiction

[zencat]

Dose it really matter?

I don't think it dose. From what I can tell, both alcoholism and alcohol
(harmful substance) addiction share two symptoms that can be the most problematic:

..."uncontrollable, compulsive drug seeking and use, even in the face of negative health and social consequences."

..."uncontrollable, compulsive craving, seeking and use of drugs"...
Source: NIDA The Essence of Drug Addiction

I view alcohol as a drug, so for me alcoholism is nothing more or less than drug addiction when concerned with the two symptoms as quoted above.
But because there will always different views and opinions about this subject, its unlikely there will be a solid consensuses. After all what seems to matter most, at least for me, if alcohol is causing problems in ones life...positive changeare in order.

[sugah]

I know there are those who hold the view that alcoholism is somehow different from drug addiction, but I'm with you. Being "both" an alcoholic and an addict, I can say that I used drugs for the same reason I drank alcohol, and for me, the symptoms didn't really matter. What I used might be as simple as what was available at the time. I accept that not everyone has identical symptoms, though I can't really relate. For example, I've known heroin addicts who swear they can have one beer and walk away. I don't get it, but I believe them.

My experience with recovery, however, has very little to do with the symptoms. Even if I felt I could indulge in certain substances with impunity, it's incongruous with the way I define "sober" -- which, for me, means keeping my spiritual channels clear. Artificially altering my mind or mood clogs those spiritual channels.

Peace & Love,
Sugah

[zencat]

Dec 10, 2009 12:51:23 GMT -5 sugah said:

I know there are those who hold the view that alcoholism is somehow different from drug addiction, but I'm with you.

I think its interesting that there is a very popular recovery program that has tailored the symptoms of alcoholism to fit its program. I don't see it that way. For me the general consensus of addiction symptoms established by the professional addiction treatment community provides an efficient understanding for me.

sugah said:

Being "both" an alcoholic and an addict, I can say that I used drugs for the same reason I drank alcohol, and for me, the symptoms didn't really matter. What I used might be as simple as what was available at the time. I accept that not everyone has identical symptoms, though I can't really relate. For example, I've known heroin addicts who swear they can have one beer and walk away. I don't get it, but I believe them.

I'm a little unclear here. The symptom that lead to addiction? Lets see...the cause for people having an addiction is especially varied, yes. But the symptoms of addiction are...at least for the most problematic ones seem to be universal.

sugah said:

My experience with recovery, however, has very little to do with the symptoms. Even if I felt I could indulge in certain substances with impunity, it's incongruous with the way I define "sober" -- which, for me, means keeping my spiritual channels clear. Artificially altering my mind or mood clogs those spiritual channels.

I'm similar in belief. Although I'm not keen on calling myself spiritual because of the misunderstanding that being spiritual could imply having supernatural beliefs. Being basically an atheist (non-theist really)...Zen offers a way to "be" in relation "with all" and be at peace with it too. Nothing mystical or higher Powered about it for me. Just living in the "now" without trying to escape or cling to anything....especially harmful substances of abuse/dependence.




















Peace & Love,
Sugah

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[coalho2]

Everyone who is indulged in heavy consumption of drugs and alcohols should think about their future and get proper treatment for their addictions. These treatments are highly successful these days. I also got the treatment at an addiction counseling Virginia center and it helped me a lot.