Why It’s Called Alcohol-ISm – not Alcohol-WASm
Chronic, progressive, fatal – those words are used to describe the nature of alcoholism as a disease. An untreated problem with drinking that simply gets worse and worse unless it is addressed. Unfortunately, if left untreated, alcoholism and addiction often lead to jails, institutions, and/or death. Alcoholism and addiction are recognized as diseases by the American Medical Association. Unfortunately, there is no cure, however the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous declares, “there is a solution.” The disease can be treated successfully, but could reassert itself. A relapse means problem drinking behaviors and issues return with an even greater threat to the individual and their family.
Treatment begins with abstinence. The complicated mental and physical nature of the disease means that ongoing consistent, purposeful action by the person suffering with this disease is needed. It should continue as a lifestyle. This idea can be daunting for someone new to recovery, which is why the concept of “one day at a time” is a great way to look at treatment. For an alcoholic, recovery is ongoing.
The new lifestyle of recovery is based on a spiritual foundation learned through treatment and the 12 Steps. It is a set of thoughts, actions and behavior that need continual growth. Involvement with the 12 step programs are essential to keep this foundation strong. This maintains a healthy, sober lifestyle after treatment. It also provides the tools to deal with the inevitable issues of life that could trigger a relapse.
In today’s busy and complicated world, it can be easy to give this program a low priority. “Remember that we deal with alcohol – cunning, baffling, powerful!” to quote the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. Complacency leads to relapse. The principles learned in treatment and the 12 step way of life mean relapse can be kept at bay. Beyond that, the benefits of this new lifestyle are realized in so many other ways, and the joy of living life on life’s terms is maximized. Recovery for the alcoholic is ongoing – it takes focus and action every day, day after day – which is why we call it alcohol-ISm – not alcohol-WASm.
-Peter Hirsch, Counselor
