Posted by
Mark .t on Monday, April 23, 2007 1:11:33 PM
I have been in recovery for 4 1/2 years. Before that my life was dominated for over a decade by prescription drug addiction. One of the issues that is still not clear in my mind is whether or not addiction is a disease or a moral lapse in character. Recently HBO had a special on addiction where they took the position that addiction is a disease which can only be solved by science. They seemed to say that what is needed is more chemicals to solve the problem. I believe there is merit to that but it seems to be an incomplete answer.
For generations people have gotten clean by involving themselves with a 12 Step Program. No new drugs were needed just self will , peer support and a grasp of a Higher Power. My question to you is what do you think - disease or moral problem or a combination of both?
I'm not looking for an academic position but rather what your experience has taught you. Let the conversation begin.