Breaking Addiction

Last week, I posted about the sadness and devastation alcohol addiction can bring. This week, I wanted to give some places to go for help.

First and foremost, a person must be ready to break the addiction. Once there is realization of a problem, the road to true healing can begin. There are many organizations that provide assistance with alcohol addiction; one organization is Alcoholics Anonymous.

Alcoholics Anonymous, also known to many as AA, has been helping people since 1939. AA is built upon men and women who have had a drinking problem in the past, and are now, in return, helping others who are in that beginning place. They do not turn anyone away from the program; there are no membership requirements. AA is open to anyone who wants to do something about his or her drinking problem.

What if we see a friend or loved one suffering with this addiction? What can we do to help them? Certainly, it is wise for them to seek help from professionals; however, I believe it is important for us to walk alongside them. Prayer is the most important thing we can do; in addition, encouragement and accountability are also helpful.

Everyone needs encouragement. When you are facing one of the biggest fights of your life, it can be the difference between success and failure. Knowing someone cares is so important. By letting someone know you believe they can do it, that may be just the thing they need to get them through.

Not everyone likes accountability. Lets face it; it’s uncomfortable. It’s also uncomfortable to hold someone accountable, but it is so very important. Many times, people need a gentle reminder, whether or not they want it. In the end, your friend or loved one will thank you for caring.

This is certainly not an exhaustive list of resources, but please get help if you or someone you know is dealing with alcohol addiction.




Alcoholics Anonymous. (n.d.). Retrieved March 27, 2015, from http://www.aa.org/

The Problem of Addiction

Have you ever looked at the people who pass you by on the street? I mean, really looked at them. Have you ever wondered what’s going on in their lives? Is there hurt? Is there disappointment? Is there joy?

Unfortunately, there are a lot of hurting people out there. One of the hurts is alcohol addiction. Addiction for many is a never-ending cycle of wanting to do better, being strong for a while, then falling back into the same behavior again. This monster has a strong hold and rarely lets go on its own.

Who are the people caught up in addiction? According to The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc., one in every twelve adults is dealing with alcohol abuse or dependence. According to this fact, we all know someone who is battling with enslavement. Addiction is not prejudice; it does not attack some groups and not others. No, it is equal to everyone. This master grips people young and old, rich and poor; it plays no favorites. Sadly, many people suffer in secrecy, or perhaps, denial.

The lives of those affected can be devastated financially, as well as, relationally. If you think you or someone you love may have a problem with alcohol answer the following questions honestly: Are you neglecting responsibilities at work, home or school? Do you put yourself in dangerous situations like driving while impaired? Are you finding yourself in more and more legal situations due to driving drunk or being involved in domestic disputes? Are you spending time out drinking with friends, instead of, spending time with your spouse or family? Do you get drunk after a stressful day at work? Are you having more and more “stressful” days to justify getting drunk? If you find these things to be true, this may be indication of an alcohol addiction and you or your loved one needs to get help.

Where do you turn to get help if you feel you, or someone you, know has a problem with alcohol? You have options, next week, I will give you some suggestions on where to turn for help.



The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. (n.d.). Learn About Alcohol. Retrieved from https://ncadd.org.