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Who Answers?Those who decide to overcome alcoholism, also known as alcohol use disorder, often join 12-step support groups such as AA Alcoholics Anonymous to help them achieve sobriety. Though AA has been helping addicts stay sober for several decades, there are common misconceptions about the program that may prevent addicts from seeking the help they need.
If you or a loved one is suffering from a drinking problem or another addiction, understand it’s never too late to get help. Call our 24/7 confidential helpline at
800-948-8417
Who Answers?
to speak with an addiction counselor about your options for nearby rehab centers that can help.
Curious about AA, but aren’t sure if the program is right for you based on what you’ve heard? Here are five common myths about AA, debunked.
Myth #1: AA is a Religious Movement
Although originally Christian-based, AA welcomes members of all religions and beliefs.
While the 12 steps of AA do refer to God or a Higher Power, the founders say that this concept refers more to the spiritual awakening you must experience in yourself to recover from alcoholism. AA welcomes addicts of all religions and spiritual beliefs, including those who practice atheism. AA is meant to offer a place of recovery, and not religion.
Myth #2: AA is a Cure-All
Many recovering addicts need additional help to overcome addiction than just going to AA. Addiction often stems from causes such as mental illnesses and previous traumatic events, which can be treated using counseling and therapy at rehab centers. Some addicts also struggle with overcoming physical dependence on alcohol, and benefit from going to detox centers.
AA is not to be viewed as a cure-all for alcoholism, but instead as a tool that offers support and enhances your journey along the path to sobriety.
Myth #3: AA Prescribes Treatment
AA can offer you the support and guidance you need to achieve sobriety, but does not prescribe treatments for addiction or alcohol dependence. When going to AA, understand you are there to learn and share experiences with other AA members that lend to the shared goal of sobriety.
Could AA Be Right for Me?
Recovering from alcohol addiction is a lifelong journey, which is why this substance use disorder is often treated using a combination of therapies. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is one resource to help people become and stay sober and is available nearly worldwide. Whether you recently finished an alcohol rehab program, are seeking the right treatment for…
Myth #4: AA Pays for Addiction Treatment
AA does not solicit or accept funds from outside sources, and does not pay for addiction treatment. Your AA sponsor and other AA members may recommend rehab centers, detox centers, and other addiction treatment centers that can help, but AA itself does not pay for treatment costs.
Myth #5: AA is a Social Service Organization
AA does not have paid social workers or professional field workers. AA sponsors are available to guide members through the program, and to lend an ear when addicts struggle with recovery. But nobody in AA is paid to facilitate AA meetings and events, or to sponsor and help fellow AA members.
Many alcohol rehab centers offer AA Alcoholics Anonymous support groups to help recovering addicts progress along the path to sobriety after treatment has ended. Attending regular AA meetings can help addicts learn new ways to avoid relapse and rebuild their lives after overcoming alcoholism.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, understand that help is just one phone call away. Call our 24/7 confidential helpline at
800-948-8417
Who Answers?
to speak with an addiction specialist about nearby rehab centers and AA Alcoholics Anonymous groups that can help you or your loved one achieve lifelong sobriety.