440 Alcohol and Other Drugs
Overcoming
Problems
with
Alcohol
and Drugs
Although it may seem difficult to overcome a dependence
or addiction to alcohol and drugs, it can be done. There are
2 stages: quitting and then learning ways to stay free of drugs
and alcohol.
Quitting
If you think you have a drinking or drug problem and want
to quit:
1. Admit you have a problem.
2. Decide to do something TODAY.
But I only had
3 cups... or was that
4? I’m not sure. You’re
right. Maybe I am
drinking too much.
I’ll stop drinking
so much chicha
tomorrow.
It is tomorrow.
Believe you can
begin to quit today.
➤ Stopping is
often easier with the
help and support of
others.
424
starting a
support group
3. Stop. Or use less and then stop. Many people can stop
drinking or using drugs all at once. All it takes for them is
the will to stop and the belief they can do it. Others need
help from a group or treatment program like Alcoholics
Anonymous (AA) that helps people with drinking or drug
problems. There are AA groups in many countries. There
may also be other groups or treatment programs in your
area. Most women feel more comfortable in a group
with women only. If there are no groups in your area, try
starting your own group with someone who has been
successful in helping people to stop drinking or using drugs.
4. If you start drinking or using drugs again, do not blame
yourself. But try to stop again right away.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
To become a member of AA, a person needs only one thing: a desire to stop
drinking. To join, you simply meet regularly with others who have quit drinking, in
order to share your experience, strength, and hope. You also have a sponsor—a
person who has stopped drinking for a period of time, and who can give you
individual support.
AA does not charge any money. It does not support or oppose any causes, or
have connections to any religious or political groups. The only purpose of AA is to
carry its message to the drinking person who still suffers.
Other groups like AA exist for people who misuse narcotics (NA), and for
family members of people who misuse drugs or alcohol.
Where Women Have No Doctor 2012