Sharing experiences to support others

• Why is anonymity such an important part of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)?

AA as an organisation has no opinions on outside issues. Our members’ primary purpose is to stay sober and to help other alcoholics achieve sobriety. AA is for this purpose only and members are encouraged to maintain their personal anonymity at the level of press, radio, film and, of course, social media.

• Can you explain how AA works – is it all about meetings?

AA is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and, importantly, their hope with each other to solve their common problem and to help others to recover from alcoholism. We welcome people into our meetings (many of which are online at the moment), and share with them how we have done it. Alcoholism is a disease that can affect anyone, irrespective of background, race or creed.

• Is it part of a religious group?

No, absolutely not. Everyone is welcome. Some of our members have strong spiritual beliefs, some belong to religious groups, some are agnostics and some are atheists. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking.

• How have people coped without being able to attend meetings during lockdown?

Many meetings opened up on Zoom and similar systems, which has been brilliant. xisting members who know the importance of keeping in touch with one another outside of meetings are encouraging others to use their phones maintain contact, or by arranging socially distancing meet-ups where possible. The fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous is an extremely important part of the recovery process.

• How can I help someone whose drinking is excessive?

That’s a very good question. However, whether the person concerned is an alcoholic or just a heavy drinker, unless they want to stop drinking then nothing you can do or say will help. If they indicate that they want to stop, or at least think they may have a problem, suggest that they ring our 24 hour helpline and talk to one of our responders. We also have a Chat service via our national website that may be useful as well. Talking to their doctor may also help. If they are admitted to hospital for an alcohol related problem then most hospitals have specialist drug and alcohol specialist staff that you can access.

• AA has a long history. How long has it been going?

It started in Ohio, USA, 85 years ago as a result of a meeting between Bill W, a New York stockbroker, and Dr Bob S, an Akron surgeon. Both had been hopeless alcoholics. 2022 marks AA’s 75th anniversary in the UK. There are meetings all over the world, with over 3,500 across the UK happening weekly. There are many local meetings, as well as some Al-Anon meetings for families and friends of alcoholics.

• Where can I find further information?

You can call the 24-hour helpline on 0800 917 7650 or visit the website at www.alcoholics-anonymous.co.uk The Al-Anon website is www.al-anonuk.org.uk

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