When did alcoholism become a disease?

when did alcoholism become a disease

I will be glad to help you study this topic. To answer your question, alcoholism is a complex condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is defined as a chronic, progressive disease that is characterized by a strong craving for alcohol, loss of control over drinking, and continued use despite negative consequences.

The concept of alcoholism as a disease is a controversial topic, with some arguing that it is a disease and others arguing that it is a choice or a personal weakness. However, there is growing evidence to support the idea that alcoholism is a disease, and that it is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.

The first steps towards recognizing alcoholism as a disease were taken in the early 20th century. In the 1930s, American physician and psychiatrist E. M. Jellinek proposed that alcoholism was a disease, and that it followed a predictable course of development. In the 1970s, the American Medical Association formally recognized alcoholism as a disease, and in the 1990s, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) was revised to include alcoholism as a separate diagnostic category.

Today, researchers continue to study the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to alcoholism. While there is no cure for alcoholism, there are a variety of treatments available that can help people recover from the disease. These treatments include detoxification, counseling, medication, and support groups.

In conclusion, alcoholism is a complex disease that affects millions of people worldwide. While there is still much to learn about the causes and treatments of this condition, there is growing evidence to support the idea that it is a disease that requires medical attention and support.

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