I apologize this is not a question, but a really interesting article on the AA approach vs. a medical approach to alcohol addiction.

My opinion is that without the AA program, I would not be sober today, nor for as long as I have, but it is interesting to read about what medical advances have been made and how other countries address alcohol addiction.

The Irrationality of Alcoholics Anonymous - The Atlantic

AA has helped 1000's of people. While I did not use it myself, I have had close friends that did.

I have embraced the advances of science that make it possible to help more people but I have an issue with disparaging what once was the only place a suffering person could turn to for help. Some places are better than others as some AA groups were better than others, and still are.

As in all things though more will be revealed later, but I cannot say that my experience was/is a religious one, but spiritual, in mind, body, and soul. Alcohol/drugs is but a symptom of a greater problem that needs addressing in my mind, and recovery is more dependent on that discovery of the root issues, as much as abstinence.

Sorry I ain't into the hope of drinking responsibly in the future, as tempting as that may be, by taking a pill, or exercising self control, but as was said the more help for those that suffer... the better. That adjustment was made along time ago.

My husband benefited from the 12 step program, but then he had always embraced his christriantry. He is now 8 years sober snd helping others enlighten themselves. It is an uphill battle and no turning back.

AA came about when there was no hope for people who could not quit drinking and has been saving lives and families for what, 75 - 80 years now? Bill W. and Dr. Bob accomplished what the medical community of their time could not. They found a way for us hopeless alcoholics to find relief from the constant obsession of the body and mind, by following a simple set of steps when medical doctors had given up.

I am not, at all, interested in bashing AA, or arguing what percentage it helps. If it saves one person's life, it is worth it. I imagine it has helped tens or hundreds of thousands of us. Without AA, I would probably be in jail, dead, or still wishing I were dead every other day of my life. The program is fantastic and I can see in my daily life how it can and should be practiced in all of my affairs.

I know the program works. I do not agree with everything in the article, I just find that it contains some valid and interesting points. While it is the only way I know to stay sober, I think it is about time the medical community (as well as police, courts, prisons and health care system) be willing and open minded in looking at additional solutions to a growing problem. Spend more time and money on prevention and recovery options rather than incarceration.