The literature is littered with arguments about which treatments are most effective, and researchers from both camps have been able to support their theories using various research designs with different populations of problem drinkers. Both models and treatment orientations have merit. Some of the distinctions are semantic, and since the condition and the treatment are multivariate, it’s best to focus on what works for a given individual; most treatment programs address biological, behavioral and social issues. Generally, some combination of treatment works best. Patient characteristics, stage of alcoholism and comorbid conditions influence type and length of treatment. (See NIDA’s Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment.) (more…)

Addiction is defined as being abnormally dependent on something that is psychologically or physically habit-forming. This article gives an overview of one type of addiction: Alcoholism.

There is not a standard, agreed upon, definition of alcoholism. What’s more confusing is that alcoholism is differentiated from alcohol abuse. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) characterizes alcoholism to include: craving, a compulsion to drink, loss of control, the inability to stop drinking once drinking has started, physical dependence, withdrawal symptoms that are relieved by consuming more alcohol and tolerance. (more…)