Intervention (page 2)

"If these people would just leave me alone, I wouldn't have to drink so
much (or use drugs, etc.) My drug use helps me deal with these horrible
things happening in my life! I NEED THEM TO MAKE IT!" This is what is
known as "addictive thinking". It is denial in action.

Something a non-addict can plainly see is a consequence of misusing mood
altering chemicals, such as DUI's, loss of a job, and domestic violence, are
seen by the addict as REASONS for using these substances.

“The cops are out to get me.”
“My boss puts too much pressure on me.”
“My wife/husband would drive anyone to drink.”
“They wouldn't shut up so I had to shut them up”

These are all manifestations of denial in action. Denial isn't just a problem
for the addict. Family members, friends and even colleagues can all
experience denial. "My kid is on the honor roll, they can't be an addict."
"She's a respected surgeon and chief of staff! No way she's using drugs." "He
did the anesthesia for my wifes surgery! I would never have asked him to
do that if he was an addict!" Addiction is a brain disease that occurs when
the following circumstances “come together”:

This is similar to other chronic diseases such as lung cancer or hypertension.
When the right person, is exposed to the right chemical, in the right dose,
for the right amount of time, a given disease will occur. (continued)