Alcohol Abuse is on the rise. More than 14 million adults suffer from alcohol abuse or dependence in the United States—also commonly known as alcoholism. Although many people think of alcoholism as a problem for the young, it’s more common among adults over age 65. Research shows that 20% of adults age 60 and older have a drinking problem.
So what can be done about this growing epidemic?
Many people turn to AA meetings to get support and advice on how to cut down their alcohol use. According to research in the medical journal Addiction, this type of intervention is very effective.
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that 12-step interventions were the most effective form of treatment for alcohol abuse. The researchers concluded that “12-step facilitation therapy can help individuals with alcohol use disorders abstain from alcohol.” In addition, AA meetings helped people reduce their drinking by more than 50% in only three months.
If you’re thinking about going to AA meetings to recover from alcohol addiction, here are some of the main benefits:
AA meetings are a Safe Place
The primary benefit of AA meetings is that they provide a safe place to discuss struggles with addiction and share experiences related to sobriety. In addition, the anonymity and confidentiality of all members at AA meetings ensure that each member feels comfortable participating and sharing their stories with others in the group without fear or shame.
It’s hard to get sober alone
AA meetings are essentially a place for like-minded people to sit down and openly discuss the issues preventing them from achieving and maintaining sobriety. It’s like a living, breathing support group, where everyone understands what it’s like to be an alcoholic and what it’s like to fight to overcome their alcohol addiction.
The thing is, it’s hard to stay sober alone. Knowing that there’s a place you can go and other people you can talk to who will understand and accept you for your struggles is incredibly comforting.
The solution to the problem of alcohol abuse is not to punish and isolate alcoholics but to help them get the help they need in a way they are comfortable with.
For some, this involves a traditional substance abuse treatment program, an inpatient treatment program, or outpatient treatment. For others, AA meetings play an important role in obtaining and maintaining sobriety.
Many people find the benefits of AA meetings to be ideal for coping with alcohol abuse issues because it’s free and easy to access. In addition, there are AA meetings any time, day or night, and all you have to do to attend is show up.
Education on the warning signs of alcohol abuse
One of the primary benefits of the AA meetings is the education on the warning signs of abuse. Some of the most common warning signs that someone may be abusing alcohol include:
-Using alcohol at inappropriate times. For example, when they are driving, pregnant, or when they need to be at work or school.
-Consistently drinking more than intended or than others in the same situation.
-Having problems with relationships, work, or school due to their drinking.
-Experiencing cravings for alcohol.
-Avoiding responsibilities due to their use of alcohol.
-Neglecting their responsibilities because of their use of alcohol.
-Feeling irritable when they do not consume alcohol.
-Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when they do not consume alcohol.
You learn how to handle stress without alcohol
Many alcoholics turn to alcohol to numb negative feelings or emotions. This is bad for the person, because it creates an imbalance in their mind and body.This is bad for their mental, emotional, physical and spiritual health.
AA meetings teach alcoholics how to cope with stress without the need for alcohol or other harmful substances.
You learn how to set healthy boundaries in your life
Many alcoholics become dependent on alcohol in order to cope with life. They drink because they feel like drinking is their only way of having fun or relaxing.
AA meetings teach you how to live life without alcohol. Some of the key concepts you learn in AA meetings include:
- How to live life in the present moment.
- How to be more mindful and aware of your life.
- How to have fun without drinking.
- How to relax without drinking.
Conclusion
Finding and attending AA meetings can be very effective in helping people recover from alcohol abuse. There are AA meetings almost anywhere, and all you have to do to attend is show up.
If you are interested in attending AA meetings, it’s important for you to do your research first. If you are unsure about attending AA meetings, it might be better for you to seek out a more traditional treatment program for alcoholism. This is especially true if you are uncomfortable about sharing your personal story in front of strangers.
How Can I Find An AA Meeting Near Me?
AA Meetings directory is a great resource that can help you find the closest AA meeting that suits you.
We make it easy for you to find AA meetings in your local area. There’s no need to put out flyers or ask people on the street for help. AA meetings are spread throughout the country, so there’s a good chance you’ll be able to find one that’s close to you.