Under the Influence: A Guide to the Myths and Realities of Alcoholism

"This book is nearly thirty years old. Surely there is a better, more contemporary explanation of alcoholism. The author's thesis is that alcoholism is an entirely physiological phenomenon, caused by the inability of the alcoholic's liver to adequately process acetaldehyde, an intermediate by-product of alcohol metabolism. In the past thirty years, has medical science agreed on this thesis, or has it been rejected? One won't find the answer reading this book.

Certainly, AA has not accepted the two recommendations made by the authors: (1) that AA reduce its emphasis on a moral inventory that includes the alcoholic's behavior while drinking and (2) that AA stop recommending the use of sugar and sweets. AA continues to promote a moral inventory -- and the use of sweets (not to mention coffee and smoking) is widespread in AA. Anyone reading this book before going to AA will be very surprised and perhaps put off.

Also, the author's thesis does not really explain the more recent observations that alcoholics appear to be more susceptible than other people to other addictions, not only to drugs, but also to behavioral addictions like gambling, sex, food, and shopping. Authors like Patrick Carnes (on sex addiction) and Kay Sheppard (on food addiction) note this connection.

We need a better book to provide the background to people who are encountering alcoholism in themselves or their loved ones. This book is a classic, but it's best left as a historical artifact, not as the last word on the subject."
~ Written on 2008-06-15

"I train counselors and counsel families of alcoholics, and when a family member is having a very difficult time (even though she is trying hard) to understand that this is a disease----I refer her to this book. This helps her to see so well, that his rage is because alcohol excites the rage-centers of the brain. And because she now understands this, she knows, then, that the crazymaking coming out his mouth is the disease talking. Does not mean that she is not in pain from his behavior---but this book does help to take the edge off it. And this book helps her to spot the alcoholism in her children, too, because she now knows how very genetic this disease is.
I see that one of the inside-cover endorsements for this book is by Toby Rice Drews---the author of the "Getting Them Sober, you CAN help" book. Her book is my 'sister book' to Milam's book! Together, these two books are lifesavers in my home. My counseling clients tell me that when they read "Getting Them Sober", their family lives change for the better within three days! I feel that these two books are 'sister' books because Milam (in "Under the Influence") explains the entire physiological body/brain effects from alcoholism----and Drews (in "Getting Them Sober, you CAN help") explains in detail, exactly how to make changes in one's relationship with the alcoholic (whether or not you live with him)------ so that the alcoholic has an 80% better chance to get sober. (The cover-endorsements for the book are by 'dear Abby', Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, and Melody Beattie, author of 'Codependent No More', who says that "Getting Them Sober is the BEST book for the family of the still-drinking alcoholic".) Getting Them Sober: You Can Help! (Getting Them Sober)"
~ Written on 2008-02-01

"The author clearly defines the progression of the disease. He describes the scientific physiolgical effects of alcoholism on an alcoholic. Milam describes in scientific detail the neurological impact of alcoholism on the frontal lobe. Race/culture rates are described. If people don't understand that alcoholism is a disease I say, read "Under The Influence". There is no question after reading this book that it IS a disease. The moral/willpower issue should long have been disolved. This book is a myth buster for alcoholism. This is truly an enlightning must read for everybody."
~ Written on 2008-01-26

"I find this book fascinating. Having worked in the treatment field for a long time and having worked at Lakeside-Milam (which Milam started) I feel comfortable recommending and discussing this material.

I've met Dr. Milam and used to listen to him lecture. Interesting guy, soft-spoken, and full of knowledge. He is a true pioneer.

I've also been fortunate enough to work at Schick Shadel Hospital. If you like the work of Dr. Milam, I would invite you to check out the work from Dr. James W. Smith. Dr. Smith has been practicing addiction medicine since 1960. He is Board Certified in Family Practice and certified by the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM).

Dr. Milam was a pioneer, Dr. Smith is a legend. Knowing both approaches I'm excited to move forward in my body of knowledge.
"
~ Written on 2007-10-03

"I feel empowered with information. I can seriously say that for the first time, I am empty of judgement. On the cover it says "A life-saving approach to alcoholism" and that's the point I'd stress. "
~ Written on 2007-05-16