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SponsoredThe Big Book is AA’s most important text. It focuses on a number of the fundamental teachings of the program, including the 12 steps.
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What is the Big Book?
Known as the Big Book because of the thickness of the paper in its original version, Alcoholics Anonymous: The Story of How Many Thousands of Men and Women Have Recovered from Alcoholism is considered by many to be one of the most influential works written in the English language. It was authored by William Griffith Wilson (also known as Bill W.) in 1939.
The book contains “stories of the drinking experiences and recovery” of several individuals, many of which are still relevant today. It also explains the 12-steps and other lessons that are important to working the AA program.
Why is the Big Book So Important?
The Big Book has influenced millions of individuals as well as the face of health, medicine and recovery as a whole. Before the book was written, many believed alcoholism to be an issue of will and that those who were unable to overcome their drinking were not trying hard enough.
AA and its seminal text helped to convince the world that addiction is not an issue of weakness but is actually a serious disease that must be treated.
Do I Need to Read the Big Book to Be in AA?
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, there are several ways an individual can better understand AA and help to dispel some of the myths of the program. Reading the Big Book is one way to find an understanding of AA and the philosophy behind it.
The Big Book can be read for free online, as well as other texts associated with AA.
Learning from the Big Book
Reading the Big Book and attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings can offer valuable lessons, but active participation is essential for recovery. While many people achieve sobriety through AA, combining peer support with professional treatment provides the strongest foundation for safe and lasting recovery. Many rehab programs incorporate the 12 steps in their treatment plans and may offer opportunities to attend a meeting while in treatment.
If you would like to find one of these programs and begin attending treatment, call
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5 Ways to Talk to Someone About Your Experience with AA
The 12th step of AA is to try to bring the message of the program to others. It is important, though, to do so in a way that is not intrusive and to be kind to those you meet and to speak whom you speak. If you are struggling with substance abuse, call now to find rehab centers that will cater to your needs. 1. Focus on Your Experience You can only speak for yourself as a recovering addict, so when you attempt to bring up the program to someone else, it is important to focus on your experience instead…