If the government sees addiction as a disease instead of a behavioral issue, will that help people get better treatment?

Apparently, there are not enough beds in addiction treatment facilities in New Jersey. So advocates are trying to get The Republican Hero of the State, Governor Christie, to fund more beds, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Advocates are arguing it is cheaper to treat folks in rehab than in jail. Part of the argument seems to be that addiction is a disease, not a behavioral problem. Public opinion seems to maintain that individuals should be able to deal with behavioral problems on their own, but if it’s a disease, then it is believable they require medical help.

Do you buy this argument? And if you do, do you think it will help sell politicians, of whatever intelligence, on the need for and advantage of public support for rehab treatment programs for addictions? Why do you believe what you believe?