Why do alcohols call their addiction a disease?

[soaps]

The way I see it, it's a way of life for them, They made the choice.

[Mamyalynne]

Whether it is self chosen path or not Alcoholism I feel is a disease, may start as social and then if a terrible incident occurs becomes a 'crutch', some manage to climb back out. Sadly others do not and all their waking moments are revolved around it, a truly dreadful state to see a person so destroyed. We must always be cautious not to judge.

[Answerprancer]

..erm yes, that's what I meant !

[MarkRae]

The point about the difference between a heavy drinker and an alcoholic is well made. I am, by any standards, a heavy drinker to the extent that it will probably kill me. That's my choice, and I do it because I like it. A good French red, a pint of British Real Ale, a glass of single malt - reincarnationists notwithstanding, we get one shot at this and I'd rather die at 70 after a lifetime of pleasure than at 90 after a lifetime of abstinence an denial.

That said, every couple of weeks or so I have a "day off". No problem at all with that so far. However, if / when I'm no longer able to do it, that's when I'll seek help.

[Mamyalynne]

I do agree with you Eddie, I have only ever known one true alcoholic and he was as you describe, very able to function , he did in truth abhor his addiction but either saw no way round it nor sought it. He was extremely intelligent and yes it killed him.

[mike11111]

An acquaintance of mine who has a drink problem denies being an alcoholic because "alcoholics go to meetings and I don't".

[tamborine]

Because it damages organs, the autoimmune system and mental state eventually.

[Answerprancer]

I totally agree with what Mark said - I drink fairly heavily too; roughly 1 bottle of red and a strong beer every evening without fail, otherwise I have sleeping difficulties. I drink much more in a party situation.
I've only ever met a few "alcohols" in my lifetime and they were lovely people -as Mamya said- we must always be cautious not to judge.

[Answerprancer]

..at the end of the day addiction is addiction whether it be mild or strong, whether it be heroin, alcohol, gambling ...or soap operas ;-)
(S/he who is without sin etc)

[tamborine]

Mark & AP, still competing, even over addictions - lol

[Answerprancer]

No competing Tambourine - please dont play "let's you and him fight" ;-)
http://en.wikipedia.o...ransactional_analysis

[tamborine]

Just observational, as you both have too much in common to fight, imo

[trt]

Thats sad mamy, did he work or just stayed at home all day drinking?

[Mamyalynne]

Time for me to draw a line in the sand, goodnight all. No falling out I hope.

[Answerprancer]

Maybe so Tambourine - but he won't speak to me :-(

[tamborine]

Worry when you're on 2 lg bottles of spirits daily; death is often much earlier than 70. Undignified and distressing to all concerned.

[Answerprancer]

Nighty night ML x

[cupid04]

Answer prancer I am stone cold sober, a bit tired maybe, but have you got three eyes?

[Mamyalynne]

♥