Member-only story
Why I Left Alcoholics Anonymous
It was a complicated relationship from the beginning
Alcoholics Anonymous (I’m sure you’ve heard of it) was founded in 1935 by Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith. Since then, AA and the 12 Steps have been the most widely known method for dealing with alcohol abuse.
Wilson wrote the AA Big Book (akin to the AA Bible) in 1939. It is the definitive guide on how to “work” the program.
Here’s the rub…
Bill Wilson passed away in 1971, and while the AA Big Book has been edited since its first publication in 1939, it desperately needs updating. When I attended my first AA meeting in 1991, AA was the only game in town.
There were no other support groups to choose from, no medications to assist with sobriety, and very little (if any) behavioral therapy to assist in recovery.
Fortunately, times have changed.
Unfortunately–AA hasn’t.
A few people have asked why I’m critical of AA and also if I’ve ever actually attended. I have extensive experience with AA, and it’s just my experience, but I will share it with you here.
