Chemical dependency: a unified illness.

Chemical dependency is now recognized as a unified illness that includes alcoholism and other substance abuse syndromes. The chemically dependent person's primary relationship is with the experience of intoxication. The general course is loss of control, social disaster, denial and ethical deterioration. Treatment is best initiated at a resource that also offers a family treatment program. The denial system must be penetrated. Abstinence and group support, such as through Alcoholics Anonymous, facilitate ongoing recovery. An aftercare process is essential.