With the recent rash of heroin overdoses in our area, I've seen a significant outcry against the idea of addiction as a disease. I'd like to throw in my own 2 cents, supported by a significant wealth of scientific research and more than 10 years working as a counselor treating individuals suffering with addiction.
Addiction is a chronic, progressive and fatal disease. The misunderstanding is among individuals who see the actual drug use as the disease instead of a symptom. Brain function in those with addiction differs from those without. Once a drug or alcohol is introduced into the system of addicts, their impulse control does not kick in, and their behavior continues uncontrolled.
Think of it as an allergy: Their body has a physiological reaction that differs from someone without the disease. Like all chronic illnesses, it is the responsibility of patients to maintain their disease at a stable level. For diabetics, this means controlling diet and activity and taking medications. Lack of self-care can lead to diabetic emergency.
For addicts, it means abstinence and engaging in supportive care to aid them in not returning to unhealthy patterns. Lack of self-care leads to relapse.