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Source:Indian Express
08 June 2010

Most people come here thinking they will have to sit through some kind of preaching sessions. But, after the first meeting they realise this is not just about stopping drinking, but becoming more responsible towards one’s family A Member
ALCOHOLICS Anonymous where many, addicted to liquor, have found a second life is completing 75 years. A day-long programme including poster exhibitions and meetings with members will be held on June 13. The exhibition will be open to public from 5 pm to 7 pm.

Deepak Jain (name changed), a member of the Alcoholics Anonymous, who had his first meeting in 2002, says, "My life has changed after I joined this group. My family had given up all hope in me.

Neither medication nor psychiatrists could help me get rid of my addiction." In our group nobody tells us not to drink. We just talk to each other in a very informal way. After hearing similar stories from others, it somehow motivates you. When I heard how alcohol addiction landed people in jail and broke families, I realised how life had gone out of control for them just because of their addiction.

Something made me realise my mistake. I still don’t know exactly what changed me but after attending a few meetings I stopped touching alcohol," Jain recalls.

He says most people come here thinking they will have to sit through some kind of preaching sessions. But, after right first meeting they realise this is not just about stopping drinking, but becoming more responsible towards one’s family and society in general. That sense of responsibility changes a person.

Anonymous has members who have been with them for more than 30 years. After giving up alcohol completely, now they share their stories with those looking for a new life at meetings.

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