F.A.Q. (Frequently Asked Questions) 

1. Isn’t alcoholism/drug addiction a moral problem?
In the past it was considered strictly a moral problem. Today it is widely accepted as a medical or health problem.

2. I must be weak!
Once a person crosses the line into addiction, no amount of self-will will get you back on track or you would have done so already. You need the help of God and your fellow man. Many have quit using but become a "dry drunk". It is a given that without help it is too much for us.

3. Am I such a “BAD” person to have this addiction?
No way! It is the addiction that is "bad". Addiction causes people to become irresponsible and to behave immorally. We believe that once a person is in recovery for their addiction, he/she can become useful and responsible members of society.

4. Am I responsible for my actions?
A person should be accountable. The alcoholic and drug addict’s reality has become distorted often blaming family, friends, their environment for their behaviours. Family and friends often excuse the behaviour and rescue the addicted.  

5. I'm supposed to be a Christian, how can this happen?
We believe that because there is sin in this world, sinful lifestyles, desires, thoughts etc. lead us to use alcohol and/or drugs which results in addiction for some people. Bottom line is addictions are no respecter of religion, gender or social status. There are many types of addictions or compulsive behaviours other than drugs and alcohol that Christians struggle with on a daily basis.

6. What if my friends find out?
If you have a true friend, they would love to see you get clean and sober. Usually the "friends" we have left are not much more than “using buddies”. It is generally the fear of being alone that haunts addicts. In recovery you never have to be alone unless you choose to be. Many people make their greatest friends in recovery.

7. What if someone sees me or finds out?
We at Family Outreach believe in the strict code of confidentiality as do most all l2-steps groups. The shame and guilt over addiction is real, you are not alone. There are millions of men and women in Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous alone. There are even many professors, pastors, doctors, nurses, teachers, lawyers, what we call professionals, in A.A. or N.A.

8. What if my boss or co-workers find out?
You cannot legally be fired for seeking help for substance abuse. The government and medical field sees substance abuse as an illness. Generally a boss/supervisor already has suspicions about you, as much as you may try and hide it, it generally becomes evident. A good employer would likely help you as much as possible to get your feet back under you. The alternative is eventually getting fired.

9. How come I feel spiritually drained, even angry towards God?
We are all a physical and spiritual, made in the image of God. With alcohol and drugs, our spiritual side dies due to shame and guilt. Most addicts, whether Christian or not, will admit that they felt like they wanted to die while actively abusing alcohol and/or drugs.

10. I don't drink/drug all the time, how can I be addicted?
It isn't the amount you use, it is HOW you use. Some people can go for periods without using, then for some reason use for days or weeks at a time. In this period a person becomes irresponsible to family, work, finances, society and even legally (e.g. driving under the influence). This person cannot understand his/her behaviour and vows not to do that again.

11. If I just put the “plug in the jug” wouldn’t everything be o.k.?
Addiction to drugs and alcohol create many problems within the home, work etc.. That is why we recommend a treatment center and a rigorous 12-step program to gain a better understanding.

12. How do I know if I’m an alcoholic/addict?
No one can make that decision for you! If you can say that drugs and/or alcohol are causing difficulty in relationships (God, family, friends, etc.), then there may be a problem. You may cross boundaries you shouldn’t or wouldn’t normally.

13. I’m not like the “bum on the street”, how can I be an alcoholic/addict?
Substance abuse takes on many forms. A person doesn’t need to go so far as to “live under the bridge”. Many practicing addicts function in everyday society without being detected. It is the emotional “bottom” that generally drives an addict to seek help.

14. How can I tell for myself if I have a "problem"?
Here are just a few checks you can do in private, be honest with yourself.

• Am I hiding my drugs/alcohol in places around my home, car, purse, shop, barn,            ?
• I crossed the line in something I said I would never do! e.g.
• using and driving.
• using some or all of my money that was meant for rent, food etc.,
• I struck out in anger, be it physically or verbally
• My significant other, family and/or friends nag me about "using" too much.
• Using to cope with problems
• Using to have a good time.

15. What if I don’t have the time to do a recovery program?
There seems to be sufficient time to use. Addictions become progressively worse, ask any doctor or recovering addict. The fact is you will die from this disease.

16. What if I cannot afford a treatment center?
In almost every case, the addict has financial difficulties. There are many creative measures available to a person who wants to recover. We here at Family Outreach Ontario can give guidance here if needed.                    

17. Can an addict ever drug or drink again?
We firmly believe that once an addict, always an addict. It has been our experience that abstaining, even for years at a time, an addict will fall to the former using patterns where he/she quit using. We recommend a new lifestyle void of any mood-altering drugs, including alcohol, always be the goal.