Introduction
Alcohol and drugs have been a way of life for some people for centuries. In the past, it was not as well known as it is today and the medical field has taken great strides to help those that have become addicted. It was first thought that there was nothing that could be done for one that was addicted to alcohol and drugs and they would have to suffer from the effects of being addicted. This is no longer thought to be the case, and we now know that people can be cured, but will always be considered addicts for the rest of their lives. There has also been a disease model that is being followed with the signs of alcohol and drug abuse.
History
The habitual use of alcohol and drugs characterizes a disease that some people suffer from that can be treated. The disease model of a person who has an addiction is one who can not stop without intervention either from a hospitalization or a doctor. There are some people that can stop cold turkey, but most people do not have the will power to just quit. For and alcoholic and drug user, it has become a way of life and they are lost if they do not get their last fix. Also, when you have an alcohol or drug addiction, it can kill you to stop cold turkey. The body goes through with drawl that can include a change in heart rate, shock and tremors. These with drawl need to be closely monitored by a health care professional in case complications start.
Features
The disease model of an alcoholic and drug abuser are basically the same and there are different degrees to both who suffer from the illness. It is now known that both alcoholics and druggies has an addiction problem and most will need help to overcome these addictions. With both, there are different stages that one goes through before it interferes with every aspect of their lives and they can no longer function with out the chemicals being in their bodies. With the disease model, people who need the help have to meet certain criteria of the model to have the help from their insurance company. If it is not seen as being a life threatening addiction, insurance companies might not pay for hospitalization at an inpatient facility to treat the addiction. There is help for the person suffering from an addiction but they have to want the help before it will do any good. Some addicts do not know where to turn to get the help that they need.
Tips and comments
The disease model has been used for years by AA and organizations that help people stay off of their addiction once they get out of a treatment facility. When talking about the disease model, most people who have either an alcohol or drug addiction will have some of the same symptoms. The biggest is a change in character for the person. If once outgoing, they will start to pull away from their friends and family. They may start missing work and school and start hanging out with people that are shady. Most people who are family or friends of the addict will know that there is a problem way before the addict will admit it. Some addicts will never admit that there is a problem and try to act like everything is fine.
