Description

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The now-classic guide to alcoholism returns with new, enlightening research that confirms the revolutionary ideas first trailblazed by this book in a time when such theories were unheard of—now featuring a new foreword, new resources, and the same reliable insights and easy-to-read style.

“This book is truly informative, powerful, and an invaluable resource on overcoming alcoholism.”—Angela Diaz, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H.
 
Ten of millions of Americans suffer from alcoholism, yet most people still wrongly believe that alcoholism is a psychological or moral problem that can be “cured” once the purported underlying psychological problems or moral failings of the alcoholic are addressed. Based on groundbreaking scientific research, Under the Influence examines the physical factors that set alcoholics and non-alcoholics apart, and suggests a bold, stigma-free way of understanding and treating the disease of alcoholism.
 
You’ll learn:
• How to tell if someone you know is an alcoholic.
• The progressive stages of alcoholism.
• How to help an alcoholic into treatment and how to choose the right treatment program.
• Why diet and nutritional therapy are essential elements of treatment.
• Why frequently prescribed medications can be dangerous for alcoholics.
• How to ensure a lasting recovery.
 
An essential resource for anyone hoping to better understand the nature of alcoholism—whether you are looking to support a loved one or learning how to best care for yourself—it’s no wonder this innovative work has been hailed as “the best book ever written on alcoholism” (AA Beyond Belief). This special updated edition of Under the Influence will continue to earn its standing as a classic in the alcoholism field for years to come.

About the Author

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A clinical psychologist, James R. Milam has been a national authority in the field of addiction for over thirty years. In addition to many scientific, professional, and public contributions, he has co-founded several model treatment programs, most notably the Lakeside-Milam Recovery Centers in Kirkland, Washington.
 
Katherine Ketcham has been writing nonfiction books for forty years. Her work has been published in sixteen foreign languages and has sold nearly one million copies. Ketcham lives in Walla Walla, Washington.

Praise For…

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“This new edition takes a bold stance from page one.”—Debra Jay, addiction specialist and author of It Takes a Family

“This updated edition of the enduring classic should be in every doctor’s office, judge’s chambers, and counselor’s office. It remains a tremendous teaching tool, and one of the best books on the subject I know. In my five decades training medical students on how to diagnose and treat alcoholism and addiction, this has been an amazing resource, and I continue to recommend this volume to my students and patients alike.”—Nicholas A. Pace, M.D., F.A.S.A.M.­­

“Milam and Ketcham’s newest version brings the clarity of the original with still greater currency­­­­­—and urgency. Whether you’re a student learning the clinical aspects of alcoholism, a treatment professional working in the field a long time, or an individual trying to get some personal answers, there’s plenty in this edition of Under the Influence to review, relearn, unlearn, and fascinate. . . . It is sure to become well read and well worn right alongside its predecessor.”—Kevin McCauley, M.D.

“The reissuance of Under the Influence could not have come up at a more perfect time. The current pandemic has resulted in skyrocketing alcoholism, and the need for the original findings along with the latest research and expanded resources is essential to all who have been impacted. Under the Influence is a must-read for judges, prosecutors, and all stakeholders in the justice system who deal with these issues every day.”—Susan Broderick, program director at the National District Attorneys Association, former assistant district attorney, Manhattan DA’s Office

“A classic work, now revised and updated for future generations.”—Richard Ries, M.D.

“Under the Influence is a classic in the addiction recovery field and has helped countless families. This new edition is a winner. It will bring hope and healing to all who read it. . . . Highly recommended.”—Jeff Jay, clinical interventionist and co-author of Love First

“A well-rounded digestible guide for all those searching for practical information about alcohol and pathways to recovery.”—Greg Williams, filmmaker, The Anonymous People

“As a professional in alcoholism treatment and an individual in long-term recovery, I believe this updated revision of Under the Influence will be as impactful today as it was forty years ago. By revising and updating this book, Ketcham and Milam will inspire a new generation of professionals, and help countless families and individuals understand this disease and lead many to their path of recovery.”—Scott Munson, executive director, Sundown M Ranch Treatment Center

“There is no better time for an update of Under the Influence, an essential tool for destroying the denial, clarifying the facts, and erasing the stigma of alcoholism with clarity and purpose. I am grateful to Kathy Ketcham and Dr. Milam for sharing this understanding once again when we need it most.”—Don Fertman, chairman of the board of The Phoenix