Page 19 - The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous

I do not hold with those who believe that alcoholism is
entirely a problem of mental control. I have had many men
who had, for example, worked a period of months on some
problem or business deal which was to be settled on a
certain date, favorably to them. They took a drink a day or
so prior to the date, and then the phenomenon of craving
at once became paramount to all other interests so that the
important appointment was not met. These men were not
drinking to escape; they were drinking to overcome a
craving beyond their mental control.

There are many situations which arise out of the
phenomenon of craving which cause men to make the
supreme sacrifice rather than continue to fight.

The classification of alcoholics seems most difficult, and in
much detail is outside the scope of this book. There are, of
course, the psychopaths who are emotionally unstable. We
are all familiar with this type. They are always “going on the
wagon for keeps.’’ They are over-remorseful and make
many resolutions, but never a decision.

There is the type of man who is unwilling to admit that he
cannot take a drink. He plans various ways of drinking. He
changes his brand or his environment. There is the type
who always believes that after being entirely free from
alcohol for a period of time he can take a drink without
danger. There is the manic-depressive type, who is,
perhaps, the least understood by his friends, and about
whom a whole chapter could be written.

Then there are types entirely normal in every respect
except in the effect alcohol has upon them. They are often
able, intelligent, friendly people.

All these, and many others, have one symptom in common:
they cannot start drinking without developing the