A Summary of Bruce Larson’s (1999) Lecture The Disease of Addiction: Symptoms & Phases
Summary by Danny Pettry
Source:
The Disease of Addiction: Symptoms & Phases [Motion picture]. (1999). United States: Hazelden.
Larson (1999) argues that addiction is not a moral failing. Larson argues reasons that addiction is illness and medical problem. The illness has symptoms and phases.
Here are five (5) parts of addiction:
- Primary: Addiction is a problem, first.
- Chronic: Addition lifelong problem. It is serious. There is no cure.
- Genetic: Addiction is a disease that can be inherited from parents and grandparents.
- Progressive: It gets worse with time. The consequences increase. Brain changes.
- Fatal: The disease kills. People die from addictions. People risk their own survival to get their next fix.
Brain Chemistry
People with addictions seek euphoria, which is a state of joy, excitement, and happiness. The drugs start to change the brain and the way feel good hormones (like dopamine and serotonin) are released. People with addictions feel worse over time.
Three (3) Warning Signs
- Biological problems: People with addictions have increased tolerance. The drugs take a toll on physical health and wellness.
- Emotional problems: People with addictions have increased negative feelings. They feel depression and hopelessness.
- Behavior problem: People with addictions have increased secrets. They attempt to hide it. They lose honesty and trustworthiness.
A person with addictions has increased loss of control in their life.
Treatments
People with addictions need to heal their mind, body and spirit. People with addictions need to take 100% responsibility for their own health and wellness. Three (3) treatment approaches include:
- Seek a higher power
- Incorporate the 12-steps in your life. Practice the steps.
- Fellowship (group support) in groups like Narcotics Anonymous (N.A.) or Alcoholic Anonymous (A.A.)
Bibliography
The Disease of Addiction: Symptoms & Phases [Motion picture]. (1999). United States: Hazelden.