Not bad or mad, but sick
Like all diseases, addiction (to alcohol or drugs) has certain characteristics. Details may vary from person to person, but the pattern and symptoms are predictable. It has a devastating effect on all areas of the affected person – physical, mental, social, financial, emotional and spiritual. His ethical or value system is greatly eroded — he easily lies, cheats, manipulates or steals to maintain his habit. It adversely affects his relationships with family, colleagues and friends.
Modern research has identified a genetic factor in the disease and scientists have isolated certain chemicals or neurotransmitters in the brain, which are directly related. Parents usually blame their child's bad company. Alcoholics themselves give a variety of excuses, such as too much stress at work or too little love and understanding at home.
Addiction is a progressive disease. It starts with an occasional glass of beer, gradually increases quantities to achieve the same high, since the body develops tolerance towards the drink or drug.
Alcoholism is a family disease too. It affects the entire family, especially the wife, parents and children. They are victims of addiction who do not take drinks or drugs. They experience similar negative feelings as the addict- fear, anger, hurt, confusion, guilt, shame, hope followed by despair. Even their behavioural patterns become similar. Just as the addict tries various control strategies to reduce or stop drinking, the family members also begin to lie, manipulate and deceive in their vain attempts to control or cover up his habit. The family members are in desperate need of proper help, support and understanding.
Alcoholism is treatable. Like diabetes, a regular treatment schedule is required to keep the disease in check. An abstinent alcoholic cannot take a drink and hopes to continue a controlled pattern. He will inevitably return to obsessive and compulsive drinking. Total abstinence is the only way.
It is a highly relapse–prone disease. A rigorous maintenance schedule is essential in order to stay sober.
The alcoholic or drug addict may appear to be a bad or mad person. But the fact is that s/he is sick and needs help.
The writer is Consultant, Prottoy Medical Clinic Ltd. Dhaka. E-mail: drsat@hotmail.com
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