Alcohol Abuse Support Groups

[chanel5]

Looking at their websites, the organisation "Alcoholics Anonymous" seems to place great emphasis on the individual's spiritual belief in god and their relationship with god. Does anyone have knowledge of this? I would appreciate some comments from anyone who has experience of AA.
Is AA a religious organisation? Is there a support group for alcohol abusers who need help, but who cannot reconcile to the idea of god? I suppose you would call these people atheists.

[jakep]

Don't always agree with you Anne, but this from Baldric is actually quite sad. Speaks volumes.

[anneasquith]

Don't recall us disagreeing Jake .:-)

[jakep]

Apologies Anne, often read, not so often post :-)

[anneasquith]

Don't apologise, I'm sure it's not needed:-)

[Muntin]

To return to the OP...I believe A A require 'belief in a higher power, whatever you conceive him to be'. [Quote from memory]
I have a relative who has worked in the field of addiction for many years and rates A A very highly.

[anneasquith]

My friend/ work colleague used AA successfully many years ago, even when abroad on holiday. At one time she was attending up to 3 meetings a day. She never ever mentioned the religious aspect.

[tamborine]

AA is more of a fraternity, where you meet same & are allocated minders (ex alcoholics) that are on call 24/7 when temptations become unbearable. Families are supported & included in the program.

My OH became an alcoholic from birth, as his mum fed spirits to him as a babe to put him to sleep.

[Hazi-Hammenuhoth]

I am an alcoholic who has been sober now for a number of years. I would never have made it this far had it not been for AA. I have met hundreds of AA members and many do not believe in God. Your concern is a very common one, but don't let it put you off. It is more a concept of a "power greater" than the individual. For many in AA that "power" is simply the group. If you were an alcoholic like I was I beg you to keep going with an open mind and look for things you CAN relate to and not worry about the spiritual aspect of it just now. You will be with the greatest mix of people you can imagine, of many faiths and none. You will not be forced to believe anything you don't want to and you will find the power you need from others who have felt exactly as you do now. You will not be judged by anyone else and you will find true support and care from people who have experienced the relentless control of the disease of alcoholism bit found there is a solution. Very best wishes for your recovery and go to AA. I can honestly say I would be dead without AA, and am very grateful that I went to my first meeting.

[Hazi-Hammenuhoth]

In reply to Baldric, can I also add that I would not wish alcoholism on my worst enemy and also that I was once judgemental and ignorant when it came to folks with addiction. Displaying your ignorance really doesnt do you any favours. Have a good weekend all.

[Mamyalynne]

Thanks for sharing your experience Hazi.

[Hazi-Hammenuhoth]

It's a pleasure Mamya :)

[gness]

Baldric......Your opinion......which was ignorant and cruel....wasn't asked for.....give it when we are asked for our opinions on people with an alcohol problem....

Chanel asked for opinions on support groups for alcohol abusers and luckily there are abers, Hazi being one, who are able to give the information requested.....
Your meaness is nasty and hurtful......

[gness]

I don't know who's removing Baldric's hurtful posts but thank you........x

Chanel....if you're looking for answers or help I hope you find both.....x

[david small]

If you take the ten steps. You just admit that you cannot Control your own life, and ask that a power greater than yourself for guidance and assistance. It works. You define no religion you except no creed, no mans interpretation. You admit loss of control and ask for help.

[anneasquith]

HH, what an excellent post, well done you on your journey.