Is Alcoholism a Disease?

Sep 2019 Is Alcoholism a Disease?

Of all the substances that people abuse, alcohol is among the most dangerous. The substance is not only highly addictive but also extremely easy for people to get. However, there’s one question that people typically ask, “Is alcoholism a disease?” In order to understand the answer, it’s helpful for people to know the definition of chronic disease. They need to know if they’ll need an alcohol addiction rehab center in Southern CA.

What Is Chronic Disease?

According to doctors, a chronic disease is one that lasts for three months or more. However, there’s more to consider than just how long the disease lasts. For example, a chronic disease is one for which vaccines can’t prevent. In general, no medicine can cure them either. 

With this definition, people can begin to understand that alcoholism is a disease. Not only is there no cure or vaccine that can prevent alcoholism, but addiction is a lifelong condition. Thus, alcoholism is a chronic disease. 

In most cases, chronic diseases affect people over the age of 65. In fact, studies suggest that nearly 88% of them have at least one chronic disease. However, alcoholism doesn’t just affect the elderly. It can affect people of any age or race. 

Is Alcoholism a Disease That People Can Overcome?

Unfortunately, there’s no cure for addiction. People who abuse alcohol and develop addiction have to deal with it for life. However, it’s still possible for them to have normal lives. With the right coping skills and support groups, they can get the upper hand on alcoholism. 

Of course, the key is to seek treatment for the disease. According to the Mayo Clinic, a chronic disease is one that gets worse over time without treatment. As a result, alcoholism can consume their whole lives.

Treatment Starts With Detox

Alcoholism is a disease that people can overcome with the right help. However, treatment doesn’t start with traditional rehab. It actually starts with detox. In fact, alcohol withdrawal can become deadly, which is why it’s so important to seek professional help.

Of course, detox alone isn’t enough to overcome alcohol addiction. People also have to attend rehab. Without rehab, they may be unable to address the root cause of their addiction. If they don’t deal with the cause, there’s a greater chance that they’ll relapse.

The best bet is to find a rehab center that offers detox too. Finding a facility that offers both means that people don’t have to transfer between different facilities. Then, they can get all of the treatment that they need in the same location. 

We Can Help You Overcome Alcohol Addiction

Is alcoholism a disease? Yes, but there’s hope for you. You can learn to control alcoholism with the help of an alcohol addiction rehab center Southern CA offers. At Phoenix Rising, our wide range of programs can help you overcome alcoholism, such as:

Take a stand against alcoholism today. Learn more about the question, “Is alcoholism a disease?”. Reach out to our friendly staff at 8552328211.