Who doesn’t love that morning cup o’ Joe? Once you’ve shaken off the sleep fog and are ready to start the day you might start to notice that the little bit of caffeine in coffee (and cream, sugar or chocolate you might add) gives you the boost to get things done. But as it turns out your Starbucks regular is a staple for another group of consumers: former alcoholics and alcoholics. If you know alcoholics or have been one yourself you’ll be all too familiar with the image of a woman sipping a cup of coffee outside an AA meeting. But what’s the connection between a morning drink and a life threatening drink? Let’s dive in and find out.
The Old Sober Drug
At almost every 12 Step program across America visitors are offered free treats and one of those treats is coffee. What they aren’t telling you is that the caffeine you’re drinking is one of the most widely used “sober drugs” in our country. What do we mean by that exactly?
Caffeine is the most widely dispensed stimulant on the market and is 100% legal and fully regulated. Children and adults consume this drug daily. Caffeine doesn’t trigger addiction though it can create dependency.
Is Too Much Coffee Harmful to Former Alcoholics?
In hindsight caffeine isn’t considered a “mind altering substance” because we’re still in control of our faculties after we consume it. Coffee doesn’t make you go on a murderous rampage or into a stupor of despair and seizures. But some medical professionals still question the presence of coffee in AA meetings. Should alcoholics and alcoholics be allowed to use any drug even the legal and safe ones?
Get Help for Alcohol Abuse or Alcoholism
Alcohol withdrawal can be one of the most terrifying parts of recovery. During the process you’ll experience minor to severe symptoms that can include night sweats, hallucinations, fevers, anxiety and sadness but always remember you can get through this. But always seek medical attention when you decide to quit drinking because withdrawal can be deadly. Never try to do this alone.
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcoholism or alcohol abuse contact Asana Recovery today. Our team of therapists and medical professionals will help you through the painful process of withdrawal and detox and guide you through the tough road of recovery. Soon you’ll be recovering faster and better.
To learn more about our residential treatment or supervised detox/withdrawal programs or to enroll in one of these programs today we’re here to talk to you at your convenience and your pace. Call Asana Recovery now to get started on your journey to recovery and becoming a healthier you.