According to the medical view, addiction is understood as a ____________.

The concept of addiction as a treatable disease aligns with the medical model that has gained traction in both clinical practice and scientific research. This view positions addiction similarly to other chronic diseases, such as diabetes or hypertension, where there are physiological processes at play that affect behavior and health. Just like these diseases, addiction can cause significant changes in brain chemistry and behavior, making it challenging to overcome without intervention.

By framing addiction as a treatable disease, the emphasis is placed on the importance of medical and therapeutic intervention in the recovery process. This allows for a broader understanding that includes not just abstinence, but also management and support of the condition over time. Treatment can involve a combination of therapies, medication, and support systems, which is important for those struggling with addiction.

This perspective also contributes to reducing stigma and encourages individuals to seek help, as it normalizes the experience of addiction as something that requires medical attention rather than a moral failing or simply bad behavior. Understanding addiction in this way fosters a more compassionate and comprehensive approach to treatment and recovery, aligning with the principles that guide the work of chemical dependency counselors.