I contacted the California Department of Alcohol and Drug Program (ADP) and inquired if they consider alcoholism a disease, their response is below. I think if we could find the positions of each state, if/when Narconon applies or is given money by a state that supports the disease model, we should be able to provide information that Narconon does not support their (state)view.
I bolded their response.
Hello,
Does ADP consider alcoholism a disease or a life choice?
Thank you
Subject: RE: alcoholism a disease or a life choice
Hello. Thank you for your inquiry to the California Department of Alcohol and Drug
Programs. ADP promotes evidence-based practices and research, which indicate that
alcoholism and drug addiction are chronic conditions that can be successfully
prevented and treated. Research and brain chemistry studies support the chronic
condition position.
California Dept. of Alcohol & Drug Programs
1700 K Street
Sacramento, CA 95811-4037
Subject: RE: alcoholism a disease or a life choice
I’m sorry, is chronic condition the same as chronic disease and if not could you explain what is meant
by chronic condition.
Thank you for your time
Subject: RE: alcoholism a disease or a life choice
Hello. Perhaps this will help you understand our position--The U.S. Dept of Health &
Human Services, the White House Office National Drug Control Policy, and leading
authorities in California say addiction is a disease that results when alcohol and other
drugs have made changes to the brain.
California Dept. of Alcohol & Drug Programs
1700 K Street
Sacramento, CA 95811-4037
Subject: RE: alcoholism a disease or a life choice
So, the California Department of Alcohol and Drugs Programs believe alcoholism is a disease.
Would it be possible to answer with a simple yes or no?
Thanks
Subject: RE: alcoholism a disease or a life choice
By the way, the answer is “yes.”
