Did you grow up in an alcoholic or dysfunctional family? How has this affected your life today? How can you recover from your childhood experiences?

The ACA or ACOA program was created in the 1970s by a group of Alateen members who needed a program that focused on recovery from their experiences growing up in alcoholic or dysfunctional families. It is a separate 12-step program similar to, but separate from Al-Anon. Emily joins Spencer to explore how ACA is different from but also works together with Al-Anon in her recovery.

Our conversation was guided by these questions.

• What is ACA?
  • Maybe talk a little about the history? (http://www.adultchildren.org/lit/EarlyHistory.s)
  • Fellow travelers – What we call fellow ACA’s
• How is it different from Al-Anon?
  • The focus of Al-Anon is on adult issues or spousal drinking, vs childhood issues in ACA.
• What is the “laundry list”? (http://www.adultchildren.org/lit-Laundry_List)
• How is the first step of ACA different? (http://www.adultchildren.org/lit-Steps)
  • “We admitted we were powerless over the effects of alcoholism or other family dysfunction, that our lives had become unmanageable.”
  • Why is this important?
• How do ACA meetings differ from Al-Anon meetings?
  • Inclusion
  • No crosstalk
• How are they the same?
  • Common topics
• How has ACA helped you recover?
• What would you say to someone who is considering attending ACA?

Please call us at 734-707-8795 or email feedback@therecoveryshow.com with your questions or experience, strength and hope. Or just leave a comment right here.

Music from the show

Martin Garrix and Dua Lipa: Scared to be Lonely

Lissie: Worried About

Cage the Elephant: Come a little Closer