Traditional Ten

"Alcoholics Anonymous has no opinion on outside issues; hence the A.A. name ought never to be drawn into public controversy." NEVER since it began has Alcoholics Anonymous been divided by a major controversial issue. Nor has our Fellowship ever publicly taken sides on any question in an embattled world. This, however, has been no earned virtue. It could almost be said that we were born with it, for, as one old-timer recently declared, "Practically never have I heard a heated religious, political, or reform argument among A.A. members. So long as we don't argue these matters privately, it's a cinch we never shall publicly." As by some deep instinct, we A.A.'s have known from the very beginning that we must never, no matter what the provocation, publicly take sides in any fight, even a worthy one.- from the chapter on tradition ten from the AA Twelve and Twelve 

As opinionated as alcoholics can be at times there has been tremendous respect for this tradition. It is imperative that we stick to our side of the street when it comes to giving our opinions on a public level. When we first got sober by going through a alcohol and drug rehab, AA, or Above It All many of us were filled with thoughts and ideas that often flooded us but as time went on we realized we needed to focus on important things like the fact that we have been so blessed to have received alcohol addiction detox and recover from a seemingly hopeless state of mind and body. We learn how to find a happy medium between feeling like we have a voice and being sure that we are not affecting AA as a whole with our opinions.

The Missing Link - Drinking and Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a vicious disease found primarily in older males, which negatively affects the prostate gland – located in the male reproductive system. A variety of factors have been shown to contribute to development risks, including exposure to particular chemicals and family genetics. New research shows that heavy drinking may also play a part

Evidence

According to the World Health Organization, an individual who consumes alcoholic beverages will increase the risk of cancer development in later life. Research shows that the risk remains even in individuals who do not consume enough alcohol to get drunk. Individuals who consume a moderate amount of alcohol on a consistent basis still appear to incur similar risks.

Connection

Scientists have come up with a number of theories as to how alcohol consumption increases cancer risks. Some research suggests that the body actually converts alcohol into toxic chemicals – the cause of hangovers in heavy drinkers. This chemical is also theorized to cause irreparable damage to DNA cells, ultimately resulting in a cancer diagnosis. Alcohol can also increase estrogen, testosterone and other hormone levels while decreasing the body’s folate supply, all factors that contribute to cancer risks.

Prostate Cancer

In recent years, researchers have located a specific link between prostate cancer development and alcohol consumption. A study performed by scientists from Australia and America appears to indicate that males who consume a mere two drinks per day increase their risk of prostate cancer development by a whopping 20%! The study also concluded that the risk factor would increase alongside additional routine consumption. 

Tips For Alcohol Sobriety While Celebrating

It can be difficult for many people to practice alcohol sobriety while attending celebrations. It may seem that no matter where you look, you will find people drinking and celebrating with various types of liquor, and you may feel the familiar sense of temptation to have a drink. However, if you are a recovering alcoholic, it is important to remember that even one drink can send you on a slippery slope down the road of alcoholism.

However, as a celebratory or sobriety survival guide will tell you, the important thing about staying sober during a festivity is to simply follow a few easy tips, each of which can help you fight away temptation while still celebrating with your friends.

Tips To Stay Sober 

 

Reconnecting with an AA group or its former members is an excellent way to get and provide much needed support during this difficult time. Invite each other over and share stories and talk about your personal successes over temptation. Even if you find yourself struggling just a little bit, you can call an AA friend and know that he or she will be there for you. There is no reason to feel alone while attending a party, because for as many people that will be drinking, there will also be those who will not be.

Depression is not an uncommon symptom of past alcohol abuse. Even a recovering alcoholic may feel depressed, and for such times, it is important to keep your spirits up without resorting to alcohol. This involves starting a hobby, finding an interesting television show, or grabbing a new book and immersing yourself in the story. If the depression becomes too severe, then it is a good idea to speak to your doctor about the possibilities of an antidepressant.

Offer to be the designated driver for people during the party. This helps in the tremendous way that it gives you an important sense of obligation to stay sober for the safety of your friends and family. By assuming responsibility for getting them home, you will be able to hold off on drinking.

Treatment For Alcoholism

Treatment for alcoholism can be as simple as living one day at a time. Even if you go one day without a drink, you have made an important improvement for that day. The days will continue to add up, until you will have gone a week without alcohol, and then a month, and then a year, and the feeling of pride and self satisfaction will be more than worth it.