It is popular in some quarters to abrogate all personal responsibility from addicts by using the word ‘illness’ which is dangerously incorrect.
The fact that some people have a much greater propensity for self-harm via addictions is not in dispute, however. It may not sound much different – but it truly is.
In all forms of addiction, sufferers have to ‘own their problem’ before they can eventually beat it.
I have considerable experience over years in dealing with people who are addicts of one form or another.
At the moment, I work closely alongside the CAB whilst attached to fronting a foodbank. Addicts are heavily represented amongst our customers. Just one situation amongst many where I have had experience trying to help addicts over years.
They need: love, encouragement, warmth, advice, practical help, referrals but the one thing I refuse to do is utter the deadly words “You are not to blame.”
I talk in depth with many over a year. I can’t think of a single person who is prepared to share their problem who does not admit that, in the end, they are the ones who have to tackle it.
The ones who do not/will not “own their addictions” are the ones who, generally, tumble into the abyss.
So very tragic.
