Can a doctor proove that I am not an alcoholic?

Question

I drank on and off (about 10 times) from the ages of 18 to 19. When I was 19, I got a DUI and haven't drank since. I am now 21.

I was sent to rehab where they told me I was an alcoholic in denial.

Is there some kind of medical test to proove that I am not an alcoholic? Could they test my liver to see that it is not damage?

What parts of your body or what tests are used to proove if one is an alcoholic?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Answer 1

No physician can "prove" that you are an alcoholic with a very high degree of certainty.  In the diagnosis of alcoholism, history is primarily the basis for even entertaining such a diagnosis, but some rigour should be exerted, e.g. appropriate serology in order to help confirm the diagnosis of this "disease."  It is not possible for a physician to prove that one is NOT an alcoholic, regrettably, as this is in defiance of the scientific method.

The majority of people affiliated with "AA" are, indeed, self-admitted recovering alcoholics who lack the sophistication/credentialing to make any scientific assertions.  They use the terms, "denial, manipulation, etc." as a method of self-affirmation.

You have patient rights and AA is not a medically rigorous organisation.  If you feel that you have a problem that is causing dysfunction in your life, then it is your decision to make (with the caveat that you are not deemed by a physician to constitute a danger to yourself or others).

Answer 2

alchoholism is a psychological condition. If you continue to feel the need to go to AA, then you are probably an alcoholic or have alcoholic tendencies. You might try seeing a therapist. They would be able to diagnose you and possibly provide proof that you are not psychologically addicted.

Answer 3

The guys with the thumbs-up have good responses.  But I just to touch on your AA group.  It seems to me as if they may actually be a part of the problem.  A true AA group would care for and help you through your recovery, rather than to demonize you and claim "once an alcoholic, always an alcoholic".  I have been to both kinds of groups, and I find the negative groups have a very low recovery rate compared to more compassionate groups.  We care for one another, we spend time with one another away from alcohol, we confide in each other, help each other through personal or external conflict.

You should really think about finding a new group, or if you believe you can handle your past addictions on your own at this point, then you should tell the AA group you're already involved with to stop calling; the way you describe it, they are harassing you.

Answer 4

The most damaged part of a person who drinks is HIS FAMILY

It´s them who should give their opinion, and the rest, listen,

drinker included

Answer 5

If you no longer drink, wonderful. If you used to drink heavily, you are what is called a "recovering alcoholic" and the recovery lasts the rest of your life. If you think of yourself this way, it may decrease the chance you will fall off the wagon.  Good for you for stopping!

A Physician can provide evidence that you have no condition related to alcohol abuse. No one can testify that you do not drink unless they shadow you 24/7

Answer 6

denying your mental illness is a symptom of your mental illness