Is Addiction Insanity?

 - Why do AA and NA refer to addiction as insanity? After chemical use, we often behave destructively toward ourselves and others; and the aftermath is invariably misery, both physical and emotional. We frequently say, 'Never again,' yet the pattern recurs. Is this anything other than insane? It is important to conceptualize addiction as insanity. If we know that we are prone to episodes of insanity, we will make a maximum effort to prevent such episodes. We cannot rely on using good judgment when such an episode recurs; in a state of insanity , we do not have good judgment to use. How absurd to say, 'Next time I go insane, I'll avoid doing anything irrational.' Some physical diseases can be prevented by immunization or medication. Relapse of addiction is prevented by remaining involved in the recovery program. Delaying your program participation until you have relapsed is foolish.

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