CHOICE OF ADDICTION

What basis is there for categorizing alcohol and drug addiction as
"mental illnesses"? There is no scientific basis for so doing, nor is
that belief officially endorsed by the medical profession.

The consequences of alcohol and drug abuse can certainly result in
"illness." But this is clearly caused by abuse of the addictive
substance concerned.

Someone may suffer from depression, but that is a different issue and
should be a separate diagnosis -- even if the person tries to deal
with the problem by using alcohol and drugs.

I don't believe applying the generalization "mental illness" to
addiction is satisfactory.

It implies a lack of choice for those afflicted, and does nothing to
help abstinence. It minimizes the most important factor, which is
their own personal motivation to be "clean and sober."

Jack McNeil, Qualicum Beach