The most difficult yet rewarding thing an alcoholic can do for themselves is to stop drinking with AA. As social drinking has been deemed acceptable by society for many generations it makes it more difficult from the outside to determine if someone is abusing alcohol. The addict themselves rarely own up to their problem until they have made a complete mess of their lives and are at a crossroads while loved ones often won’t say the words aloud until it is in the anger of an ultimatum. Alcohol addiction is a challenging disease generally not dealt with until it is already at an extremely dangerous level. The damage being done to the addict’s body can only be thwarted by stopping drinking. The corruption of relationships and the undermining of trust caused by alcohol abuse can only begin to heal by the same method of abstinence.  The 12 steps as a solution may be the best path for many, because it deals directly with these relationships that have had their trust eroded.

There are many factors involved as to why some people can be moderate drinkers while others are driven by total excess. Some think hereditary plays a role, where others believe that the behavior is learned or a form of anger acting out. However it is this real – If alcohol use affects responsibilities, deteriorates motivation and happens daily, the best assessment for abuse is to stop drinking. If there are periods of memory loss, foggy tales of bizarre behavior and the roller coaster of highs and hangovers the drinking should stop.

Many treatment options are costly and are only as discrete as the many people involved in the entire process. Taking the first step towards recovery is often scary enough for an addict and in order to successfully stop drinking one should feel safe and never judged. Every person owes it to themselves and their loved ones to live a life that is not controlled by alcohol. AA can help, though it may not work for everyone.  If you have a question about the 12 step program, you may just want to attend a local AA meeting and feel free to ask any questions.  Then you can make a decision about whether the program is right for you or not.

Tags: ,