Despite this abrupt dismissal, I searched for AA's ideas about prescribed medications. To my relief, I learned AA had no policy against these medications; in fact, they allowed their use if used as prescribed. Only my doctor and counselor can advise me on medication use -- AA groups who prohibit participation in AA when the only requirement is a "desire to stop drinking" can do harm and -- sometimes -- force depressed individuals into suicide. This is not what AA is about ... AA should help and accept those who try to maintain sobriety.
I found most other
groups I visited had no prohibition against antidepressants. In fact, when
directly and honestly addressed, other members say they use them but are
reluctant to admit it in AA rooms.
I have been sober and
actively participated in AA meetings, speaking in hospital settings, and taking
my medication as prescribed for more than 2 years now. I think my greatest
service to AA is to declare my thanks for the AA stance on these medications. I
do that, making no secret of my antidepressant use. I do a lot of service work
and sponsor people, some of whom need medications to stay sober.
What could have
happened to me when I was fired by my first home group and sponsor could have
had a much different ending. If I had stopped my medication (as demanded by that
sponsor), I don't know if I could have continued in AA, or if I would be alive
today, for that matter.
We in AA should aspire
to help other alcoholics. We are not there to dabble in matters that don't
concern us. We shouldn't negatively affect others' sobriety with our laymen's
"wisdom" on medications. People with treated depression can be productive
members of AA; others who try to meddle in our lives do so at their own peril.
If a life is lost because of meddling, I hope there is room enough in your
amends -- and in God's heaven -- for you. Rejoice in having a sober AA brother
or sister, regardless of the circumstances that brought them their
sobriety.”
Comment: Above is an
extract from the AA Grapevine site (the US based magazine for AA) – the I-Say
forum. Maybe Share would like to introduce the same facility in Great
Britain!
Check out these links:
http://www.aagrapevine.org/forums/i-say-forum and this link
for editorial policy: http://www.aagrapevine.org/index.php?q=forum-policy
Cheers
The Fellas
(Friends of Alcoholics Anonymous)
