Yet, these are the illnesses no one wants to talk about. Each person experiences an illness in unique ways, and treatment needs are different for each person. Some people are able to manage their symptoms with only minimal intervention by trained professionals, while others need periodoc intensive treatment in inpatient settings. Most people with psychiatric disabilities can, with treatment and a good support system, enjoy active and fulfilling lives in the community. About Addictions . . .
Addiction is a chronic, progressive, relapsing disorder.
It is ongoing, and left untreated, it generally worsens over time. The illness involves compulsion, loss of control and continued use of the chosen substance, despite adverse consequences. Substance abuse, the misuse of alcohol, cigarettes and both illegal and legal drugs, is by far the predominant cause of premature and preventable illness, disability and death in our society. Alcohol and drug abuse afflict an estimated 25.5 million Americans. When the effects on the families of abusers and people close to those injured or killed by intoxicated drivers are considered, such abuse affects untold millions more.