A member asked:

For what reason do people think drinking and smoking are diseases?

A doctor has provided 1 answer
Dr. Philip Gilly answered

Specializes in Addiction Medicine

The common factor...: Among any addiction, be it a drug, alcohol, food, shopping, gambling, whatever, is the feeling of compulsion. An empty, gnawing emotional void which causes a loss of control over the repetitive behavior attempting to fill that inner emptiness. The most effective addiction treatment focuses on identifying the underlying issue and a healthy, alternate response.

Answered 4/6/2014

4.2k views

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