Is Addiction a Disease? Expert Views on Age-Old Debate
Published:
Nov 15, 2024
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04:02 p.m.
ET
When most people hear the word “addiction,” they think of substance use disorder or alcohol use disorder. However, addiction can take on many forms. Research has looked into the ways that various types of addiction affect the brain.
In 1956, the American Medical Association (AMA) classified alcoholism as a disease. Thirty-one years later, addiction was also classified as a disease. Substance use disorder and alcohol use disorder are just two forms of addiction.
These days, addiction can include anything, including behavioral disorders like gambling addiction or shopping addiction. Also, addiction can happen to any individual.
It develops when the habit is so out of control that it affects every aspect of an individual's daily life. Some experts claim that addiction is a disease of the brain in the way that chronic illness is a disease of the body. However, others argue that addiction stems from poor decision-making and coping strategies.
Is addiction actually a “disease”? Differing views explored
Yes, it is a disease,
Yes, it is a disease, according to the Cleveland Clinic. The ASAM classified addiction as a chronic condition. Based on these findings, addiction doesn't just stem from a lack of control. Addiction alters brain chemistry.
There are two types of addictions: substance use disorders and behavioral disorders. Substance use disorders include alcohol, caffeine, cannabis, hallucinogens, inhalants, tobacco, and sleeping pills. Behavioral disorders include gambling, eating, pornography, sex, shopping, and video games.
No, addiction is not a disease
Tom Holden argued in his piece published in the CMAJ editorial that addiction wouldn't meet the criteria for a disease. This doesn’t give the individual accountability. Holden claimed that addiction is not like a disease that’s contagious or can be transmitted. Also, he noted that addiction treatment is not the same as treatment for cancer.
Treatment requires more than just stopping the behavior or substance. A medical disease can worsen with time, especially when left untreated. An individual who struggles with alcohol disorder could remit if they don’t have a relapse or prevention plan in place.
What officially makes something a “disease”?
According to the National Cancer Institute Dictionary, a disease is a medical condition that can affect the function or structure of an organ. It's not the result of an external injury. Rather, diseases are caused by immune health issues or pathogens.
Diseases are often classified as medical conditions that possess physical signs and symptoms. Some examples of common diseases include:
Atherosclerosis
Cystic fibrosis
Fungal infections
Measles
Parasitic infections
Does “disease” classification vary by addiction type?
Two types of addiction are classified and treated differently. Substance use disorder is otherwise known as chemical addiction. Behavioral addiction is a disorder involving compulsive behaviors.
The first step of treatment for substance use disorder is the detoxification process. This doesn't treat the addiction. Rather, it guides individuals to get through the withdrawal phase with support from a trained professional. Treatment also involves therapy, rehab, medication, and support groups.
Treatment for behavioral addiction begins with stopping the behavior. The most common approach to treatment is a combination of therapy, medication, and self-help support groups. Research has also revealed that medication for anxiety or depression can also help with some behavioral addictions.
Is Gambling Addiction specifically a disease?
Gambling disorder is a chronic mental health problem that can affect several aspects of an individual's life. It develops into an addiction when the individual loses control of their gambling habits. This disorder is classified by behavior that causes distress. It can disrupt issues with one's finances, relationships, and work or school life.
The DSM-5 classified gambling addiction as a behavioral addiction. It's the only recognized behavioral addiction in the manual. Gambling addiction is similar to substance use disorder. Both addictions can change the brain's chemistry and cause severe withdrawal symptoms.
Outpatient addiction treatment from the comfort of home
Birches Health specializes in both behavioral and process addictions. The most commonly treated disorders are gambling, video games, technology, day trading, pornography, and sex addiction. Clients work with licensed clinicians who are knowledgeable in treating these areas. Individuals receive treatment at home and around their schedule.
Treatment for any of these addictions is available through virtual therapy. Sessions include text chat, video chat, and telephone, making it possible for individuals to receive discreet and confidential treatment. Another advantage to virtual therapy is that most types of insurance cover it.
There are multiple options for taking the first step with Birches Health:
You can also call 833-483-3838 or email hello@bircheshealth.com to get in touch with the Birches team right away.
