Understanding addiction as self medication

by Edward J. Khantzian

Too often addiction is perceived to be merely a moral weakness or purely a brain disease, ignoring the deep personal pain that can permeate the lives of the addicted. Doctors Khantzian and Albanese see addictions primarily as a kind of self-medication that can temporarily soothe anxiety or pain, but that ultimately wreaks havoc on the lives and health of both the addicted and their loved ones. With practical advice, compelling case studies, and nuanced theory drawn from years of clinical practice, this book looks at the underlying reasons behind many addictions and provides a pathway to hope.--From publisher description.