Alcoholics Anonymous: Dangerous Side Effects

Since the 80 years AA began the number of alcohol problems has not declined– if anything, AA perhaps has made it worse. AA promised to rid people of the stigma/shame of drinking problems— then corralled them into meetings where they are taught to be anonymous and hide their membership in AA from the outside world. This, of course, results in more stigma/shame, not less— in addition, there’s 13 stepping (you must accept sexual harassment and not tell on others, take your own inventory), and religious abuses (God did not remove your defects therefore you must be praying wrong)… There’s increased depression, a general lack of concern for women’s needs, a criminal element that goes unchecked, more risk for binge drinking and even increased risk of suicide. If AA worked (and it may well work for 5% of so of members) then why all these dangerous side effects? Furthermore, why is AA, the majority of America’s rehabs, and other professionals in addiction fields, so quick to recommend a program that harms— then tells anyone who mentions it to keep their mouth shut? I won’t stay silent. It will save lives to honestly share the risks and harms of joining Alcoholics Anonymous. And it may save a life— maybe even yours.