<p>Spideygirl- thank you for making the distinction between mental illness and brain disease. I was not aware of the terminology difference. </p>
<p>It would seem to me that abusive and controlling behavior can be part of an addicted person’s disease. Not to say that all addicts are abusive and controlling, but that the abusive behavior could be a symptom or evidence of substance abuse. Likewise, someone could be abusive and controlling but not abuse alcohol or drugs. It does seem that addiction is related, however, to control issues- either abusive or submissive. I am no expert on this by any means- all of my experience with it is anecdotal.</p>
<p>Also- I have heard the term dry drunk- but what does it really mean?</p>