FAQ's About Substance Abuse

Frequently Asked Questions About Substance Abuse

Q: Is there a fundamental difference between an alcoholic and a drug abuser?

A: Generally, no. Substance abuse includes a wide range of drugs. Alcohol is simply one of the more commonly abused drugs. In fact, most persons with a problem use, or have used, a combination of substances. The problems at the basis of the abuse are the same regardless of the chemical used. The solutions to the problem are fundamentally the same and, functionally, the terms alcoholic and drug abuser can be used interchangeably. Therefore, the teachings of AA equally apply to "drug" abuse.

Q: Who is a Substance Abuser?

A: If drugs or alcohol are interfering with your work or causing problems in your personal relationships, you are probably a substance abuser or what AA would call an "Alcoholic." (The term might be archaic given that most people use a combination of substances and alcohol may not even be one of them. But the concept is accurate.) In such situations, common sense would cause a nonalcoholic to stop drinking or using drugs because work and personal relationships are too important. For non-Alcoholics, the decision is a no-brainer. On the other hand, Alcoholics will risk losing their career and family rather than stop, because alcohol or drugs are so important to them. Unfortunately, Alcoholics are generally in deep denial about the extent of their problem and what is responsible for the difficulties of their life, until they hit rock bottom. Occasionally, lucky ones have a life experience prior to hitting rock bottom, that opens their eyes to the obvious.

Q: What can I do if I am worried about my drinking?

A: Seek help. Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous are often the first and most effective places to seek help. There are meetings almost everywhere and the expense is nil.--Also, if you are concerned that you might be a bit embarrassed by attendance, don't worry. After sixty seconds you won't. No matter what your life problems or experience, someone else has been there and done that.

Q: What are Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous?

A: AA and NA are fellowships of men and women who have lost the ability to control their drinking or use of drugs and have found themselves in some resulting difficulty. Through these fellowships, they attempt to find a better way of life without drugs or alcohol. The fellowships provide the help and support of others who have battled substance abuse before.

Q: Is there a difference between AA and NA?

A: Nope. While real old timers might disagree, the truth is that AA and NA are essentially the same. Years ago "demon drugs" were thought to be fundamentally different from "socially acceptable alcohol." Experience and research have shown that (1) alcohol is just another drug and (2) most abusers use a combination of drugs and alcohol. Prior to this understanding, NA was formed and modeled after AA with slight variations. The better thinkers within both groups have grown to acknowledge the realities of multiple substance abuse and the unity of the therapies. The slight variations in the AA and NA programs relate more to form than substance.

Q: Does attendance at an AA or NA meeting commit you to anything?

A: Absolutely not. Neither NA or AA keep membership files, or attendance records. You do not have to reveal anything about yourself. No one will bother you if you don't want to come back.

Q: What happens if you meet people you know?

A: They will be there for the same reason you are there. They will not disclose your identity to outsiders. At AA you retain as much anonymity as you wish. That is one of the reasons they are called "Anonymous."

Q: What happens at a meeting?

A: A meeting may take one of several forms, but at any meeting you will find substance abusers talking about what drugs, including alcohol, did to their lives and personalities, what actions they took to help themselves, and how they are living their lives today.

Q: Why do people keep on going to meetings after they are cured?

Medical research is very clear that there is no such thing as a cure for substance abuse. The ability to avoid drugs and alcohol depends on maintaining physical, mental, and spiritual health. This we can achieve by going to meetings regularly and putting into practice what is learned there. Additionally, it is clearly established that people who help others stay sober are simultaneously helping themselves.

Q: How do I join AA or NA?

A: You are a member if and when you say so. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop substance abuse.

Q: How much does membership cost?

A: There are no dues or fees. A group will usually have a collection during the meeting to cover expenses, such as rent, coffee, etc., and to this all members are free to contribute as much or as little as they wish.

Q: Are these groups religious?

A: Yes and No. There is no formal religious affiliation. There is discussion of a higher power, but that is open for all members to define themselves. There is room in AA and NA for people of all shades of belief and nonbelief.

Q: Are there "Tips for Success?"

A: The people who recover from substance abuse are those who:
1. stay away from the first drink;
2. attend meetings regularly;
3. seek out the people in AA or NA who have successfully stayed sober for some time;
4. try to put into practice the program of recovery.

Q: How can I contact AA or NA?

A: Look for Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous in your local telephone directory, (or go to our links page for the web site). These telephones are answered by volunteers who will be happy to answer your questions, or put you in touch with those who can.

Remember that substance abuse is a progressive disease. It gets worse as time goes by. Take it seriously, even if you feel you are only in the early stages of the illness. Substance Abuse kills people. If you are an abuser, and if you continue to use, your problems will get worse.