Alcoholics Anonymous has been around since 1935.
During that time, medicine has changed enormously.
So have public attitudes toward marijuana, psychiatric medications, and treatments for substance-use disorders.
Naturally, AA members have opinions about these subjects.
Sometimes very strong opinions.
But does Alcoholics Anonymous itself have an official position?
AA does not offer medical advice or take positions on outside controversies.
What does AA literature say?
Tradition Ten states that Alcoholics Anonymous has no opinion on outside issues and therefore should not be drawn into public controversy.
AA’s primary purpose is recovery from alcoholism.
That doesn’t mean medical questions are unimportant.
Quite the opposite.
AA has published guidance addressing members who take medications, including The A.A. Member—Medications and Other Drugs.
That material recognizes that some AA members need prescribed medication and that members should not play doctor.
What about marijuana?
Marijuana can generate particularly strong reactions in AA meetings.
Some members consider using it incompatible with their understanding of sobriety.
Others may approach the question differently.
AA does not establish a universal medical or personal rule governing every substance or treatment.
Its focus remains alcoholism.
Members are free to share their own experience, including experiences involving marijuana or medication.
But individual opinions should not be confused with official AA policy.
Why does it matter?
Someone taking medication for depression, anxiety, pain, or another medical condition should not feel pressured to discontinue treatment because another AA member disapproves.
Decisions about prescribed medications belong with qualified healthcare professionals.
And nobody should abruptly stop a prescribed medication based on advice received at a meeting.
Similarly, questions about marijuana use may require honest personal reflection, discussion with a sponsor, and appropriate professional advice.
AA can offer experience and support.
It cannot replace medical judgment.
The distinction is important because recovery should help people become healthier, not discourage them from obtaining needed care.
We share what has worked for us.
We don’t prescribe treatment for everyone else.
From AA’s Literature
For further reading, AA publishes:
The Twelve Traditions Illustrated, particularly the discussions about Tradition Ten, also The A.A. Member—Medications and Other Drugs.
Available through AA.org.
If you’re new, try a few different meetings. Your room is out there.