Is addiction a disease or choice was the topic of an article recently published by ABC news. The article debated the topic using views from researchers, writers, drug rehab center professionals in the addiction field and addicts in recovery. America leads our planet in the use of illegal drugs and I can hear the frustration from those that argue addiction is a choice. Being a recovering addict I find it difficult to write on this subject and remain objective. My first thought is to just stay with the facts but facts seem to change depending on the motivation of the fact finder and the person presenting those facts.

Is addiction a disease or choice is a question that has to be answered by the addict themselves. If we leave out the politics, drug rehab industry viewpoint and lawyer manipulation the truth lies with what the addict must believe if they are to receive help. If addiction is a disease, active use of drugs is not the beginning of that disease. Active drug use with its complications with legal, medical, and relationship issues is what prompts a person to admit there is a problem and either seek help or have help thrust upon them.

Some people develop behaviors that are less than acceptable either to society or to the people that are closest to them. These same behaviors can become habits and although they cause some discomfort in ones life may not be life threatening. The habits that we label disease are the ones that alter brain chemistry; the behavior becomes predictable and progressive, becomes primary and will be terminal if untreated. It is at this point that some enter a drug rehab center. When someone is living a life of degradation and is hopelessly suffering with their addiction does it really matter what label society decides is right or should we just offer whatever help the person needs.