Hope for alcoholics

Dubai : Economic pressures, isolation and a string of Yuletide holiday engagements may lead to a higher number of Western expatriates seeking help for alcohol abuse in coming weeks, suggests the founder of Dubai Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).

In an interview, Tom said half-a-dozen people have sought help already in recent weeks in the lead-up to the Christmas holiday and believes the number may climb higher into the new year.

"Every year, the festive season is connected to troubled times for some people," said Tom, noting that his organisation is not for profit and maintains complete confidentiality for those seeking help.

Founded in 1977 in Deira, the group holds daily meetings across Dubai, including every Wednesday at St Mary's Church. On some days, the group sessions witness more than 50 members in attendance.

Internationally, an estimated two million members seek daily emotional support and guidance through AA after breaking from their former drinking habits.

"We let newcomers know that they are not alone and that there is hope in their despair," he said.

Group therapy is the key to breaking the isolation many homesick expatriates feel being cut off from friends and family.

While local statistics are not recorded by the organisation, world estimates contend that one in 18 people succumbs to the health and social effects of alcoholism.

According to the US Census Bureau International Data Base, 2004, alcoholism affected 140,114 people in the UAE at the time of the report.

Tom said there is also meaningful help for spouses and other family members through Al-Anon Dubai.

For details, call 050-624 3354.