Thank you for your willingness to help carry the message to the alcoholic who still suffers! When you go to your Healthcare professional (doctor, nurse practitioner, therapist, dentist, nutritionist, etc.) inform them that you are a member of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Sample Script: “I don’t want this to go in my file, but I want you to know that I am a member of Alcoholics Anonymous. It has helped me in my recovery, and I want to give you resources that may help your patients, as well as provide you with more information about A.A.” You can hand them A.A.-approved pamphlets or give them links to the digital versions found online. Finish your conversation with something like: “If you are interested, we offer short presentations to describe A.A. and alcoholism for all professional groups. We would love for you to tell us how we can help. Please feel free to call the 24-hour hotline any time.”
Remember: have confidence in A.A. We know it works!
Suggestions:
- It is suggested that we identify as “members of Alcoholic Anonymous” instead of as an “alcoholic or a drunk.” The words “alcoholic and/or drunk” trigger a negative stereotype.
- Most professionals are very busy. They want a short, concise presentation which provides them with resources if they are interested and tools they can immediately pass on to their patients/clients like the Meeting Guide app.
- Professionals want to know how best to get their clients involved in the A.A. program. Give them some tools:
- Show them the Meeting Guide app.
- Give the professional a telephone number or email address to contact A.A.
- Offer literature and a literature rack.
- Send them links to the digital pamphlets found on aa.org.
- Inform them that a member of A.A. can accompany them or their patients to an open A.A. meeting.
- If the professional asks questions, share a light version of how being trapped in alcoholism made you act and feel. This will help to create an understanding, working relationship between the “caring professions” and people who are in trouble with alcohol.
- Do not be discouraged if the professional you are speaking with is not interested. We have many avenues to continue carrying the message!