IN TIMES OF ILLNESS NA GROUPS AND MEDICATION

“IN TIMES OF ILLNESS” & “NA GROUPS AND MEDICATION” Central Nova Area Public Relations Workshop Halifax, NS January, 2016

OUTLINE OF WORKSHOP Opening—Moment of Silence and Serenity Prayer Read “In Times of Illness” with ten minutes for discussion following each section (slides to show throughout). Experience, Strength, and Hope (time permitting). Closing—“We do Recover” and “Just for Today” circle.

NA GROUPS AND MEDICATION “As outlined in In Times of Illness, the choice to take prescribed medication is a personal decision between a member, his or her sponsor, physician, and a higher power. ” “In these discussions, we must remember that regardless of our personal opinions, decisions, and experiences, our Twelve Traditions remind us that the use of medication is an outside issue for NA groups and that all addicts are welcome in NA”. (Board-approved service material)

IN TIMES OF ILLNESS “The information in this booklet is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, nor should it be used to make decisions regarding healthcare treatment without consulting professionals. Our literature tells us that when we sought help for our addiction through medicine, religion, and psychiatry, these methods were not sufficient for us. However, there will be times when we face an illness or injury that can be successfully treated by professionals. Our goal is to responsibly seek treatment for medical conditions while we acknowledge that we are recovering addicts with the disease of addiction. ” (Fellowship-approved literature)

NA GROUPS AND MEDICATION “NA’s philosophy of complete abstinence differentiates a drug used as a replacement from prescribed medication for other mental or physical conditions. ” “When NA groups consider the topic of medication, including the use of prescribed medication for surgery, injury, illness, and medication for mental health, we can begin by acknowledging the complexity of the situation. ” (Board-approved service material)

FROM OUR TRADITIONS TRADITION ONE: “We became a part of a group and found that we could recover”. “Unity is a must in Narcotics Anonymous. This is not to say that we do not have our disagreements and conflicts; we do”. “One of the most important things about our new way of life is being a part of a group of addicts seeking recovery. ” (Narcotics Anonymous, Sixth Edition)

IN TIMES OF ILLNESS “We are responsible for our recovery, but there may be times when a team of healthcare providers will administer our medical care. We have a right and responsibility to participate as an equal partner by informing our healthcare providers of our needs. ” “We apply basic safeguards that will protect our recovery when we are seeing a medical professional; it is usually in our best interest to inform them that we are recovering addicts. ” (Fellowship-approved literature)

FROM OUR TRADITIONS TRADITION TWO: “We rely on a loving God as he may express Himself in our group conscience, rather than on personal opinion or ego”. “An atmosphere of recovery in our groups is one of our most valued assets, and we must guard it carefully, lest we lose it to politics and personalities”. “There is often a vast difference between group conscience and group opinion, as dictated by powerful personalities or popularity”. (Narcotics Anonymous, Sixth Edition)

NA GROUPS AND MEDICATION “Our relationships with one another are more important than any issue that may arise to divide us. ” “Any member—those who take medication and those who feel taking medication is inappropriate—has a responsibility to not represent their personal feelings and opinions as the opinions of Narcotics Anonymous as a whole. ” (Board-approved service material)

FROM OUR TRADITIONS TRADITION THREE: “The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop using. ” “Any addict who has the desire to stop using can become a member of NA. We are addicts, and our problem is addiction. ” “All addicted persons are welcome and equal in obtaining the relief that they are seeking from their addiction: every addict can recover in this program on an equal basis. ” (Narcotics Anonymous, Sixth Edition)

IN TIMES OF ILLNESS “In the event that we encounter medical professionals who do not understand the disease of addiction, we take the opportunity to share with them about our recovery. This will help them provide us with safe and effective medical treatment. ” “Some medical professionals may misunderstand us and attempt to treat our addiction. ” “We can explain that we have the NA program to help with our addiction, and we need their help with treatment of our medical condition. ” (Fellowship-approved literature)

FROM OUR TRADITIONS TRADITION FOUR: “Each group does have complete freedom, except when their actions affect other groups or NA as a whole” “Group autonomy has been used to justify violation of the Traditions”. “If a contradiction exists, we have slipped away from our principles”. (Narcotics Anonymous, Sixth Edition)

FROM OUR TRADITIONS TRADITION FIVE: “Each group has but one primary purpose—to carry the message to the addict who still suffers. ” “The message is that an addict, any addict, can stop using drugs, lose the desire to use, and find a new way to live. Our message is hope and the promise of freedom. ” (Narcotics Anonymous, Sixth Edition)

NA GROUPS AND MEDICATION “The question for NA groups to consider is how to welcome people and carry the NA message in a variety of situations”. “Our unity and primary purpose can guide our efforts in welcoming members and creating an atmosphere of recovery”. “In this way, we can help members use the NA program to apply recovery principles to their lives, regardless of their situation”. (Board-approved service material)

IN TIMES OF ILLNESS “Narcotics Anonymous as a whole has no opinion on outside issues, and this includes health issues. We are concerned with recovery from the disease of addiction. Our collective experience shows that rigorous application of the program is our best defense against relapse. ” “The use of medication can be controversial in our fellowship. When treatment of an illness requires medication, the concept of abstinence can be confusing. It’s helpful to remember the importance of making a conscious decision not to medicate ourselves or treat our own illnesses. ” (Fellowship-approved literature)

FROM OUR TRADITIONS TRADITION SIX: “To endorse is to sanction, approve or recommend. Endorsements can be either direct or implied”. “However, we are willing to carry the NA principles into these institutions, to the addicts who still suffer so they can make the choice”. “Narcotics Anonymous is a separate and distinct fellowship in its own right. Our problem is addiction”. (Narcotics Anonymous, Sixth Edition)

NA GROUPS AND MEDICATION “When it comes to those who participate in drug replacement, it is helpful to remember that our Third Tradition clearly states that membership in NA is established when someone has a desire to stop using or when they choose to become a member, not when they are clean”. “It may be helpful for all of us to remember that many addicts on drug replacement eventually do get clean, stay clean, and find a way of life they thought was unobtainable before coming to NA”. “Groups are still charged with the goal of welcoming each person who walks into a meeting”. (Board-approved service material)

FROM OUR TRADITIONS TRADITION SEVEN: “Dreams we gave up long ago can now become realities”. “We all have to pull together, and in pulling together we learn that we really are a part of something greater than ourselves”. “Everything has its price, regardless of intent. Whether the price is money, promises concessions, special recognition, endorsements, or favours, it’s too high for us”. (Narcotics Anonymous, Sixth Edition)

IN TIMES OF ILLNESS “Many members today have experience with illness and medication in recovery. We can look to their example and listen to their experience to help us face our fears about medication. ” “We remember that we are especially vulnerable to our old ways of thinking when we are in pain. Prayer, meditation, and sharing can help us keep our minds off our discomfort. ” “Addicts are often surprised to discover how much pain we can tolerate without medication. Reaching out and sharing honestly with those we trust can help us keep our priorities in order. ” (Fellowship-approved literature)

FROM OUR TRADITIONS TRADITION EIGHT: “Narcotics Anonymous should remain forever nonprofessional, but our service centres may employ special workers. ” “By this we mean we have no staff psychiatrists, doctors, lawyers, or counselors. ” “If we employed professionals in NA groups, we would destroy our unity. ” (Narcotics Anonymous, Sixth Edition)

NA GROUPS AND MEDICATION “One of the most effective ways a group can work to resolve these challenges is by discussing its primary purpose. ” “If a group has an unwelcoming attitude toward new members who take medication for a medical condition, that group will likely alienate the very people it’s trying to introduce to the NA message. ” “Groups should exercise judgment in deciding if a member is able to perform the task associated with the service position, not whether a member is taking medication. ” (Board-approved service material)

IN TIMES OF ILLNESS “Cleantime is an issue for each of us to resolve individually with our sponsor and our Higher Power. The ultimate responsibility for making medical decisions rests with each member. However, the guidance and support of members who have faced similar situations is often available if we reach out. ” “In addition to consulting medical professionals, we may use other members’ experience and information to help us make knowledgeable decisions. We can practice the Twelve Steps, maintain frequent contact with our sponsor, write about our feelings and motives, and share with our NA friends. ” (Fellowship-approved literature)

NA GROUPS AND MEDICATION “Because NA a is* program of complete abstinence, groups do sometimes limit the participation of members on drug replacement to ensure the clarity of the NA message. ” “We must balance this limited participation with the idea that membership in NA comes with a desire to stop using, not abstinence. ” “Opening our doors to these members means that groups take the time to discuss this issue and find ways to make everyone feel welcome. ” (Board-approved service material)

FROM OUR TRADITIONS TRADITION NINE: NINE “A loving God, as he may express Himself in our group conscience, is our ultimate authority. ” “We may create service boards or committees to serve the needs of the Fellowship. They exist solely to serve the Fellowship. ” “Without this tradition, our Fellowship would be in opposition to spiritual principles. ” (Narcotics Anonymous, Sixth Edition)

FROM OUR TRADITIONS TRADITION TEN: “Narcotics Anonymous has no opinion on outside issues; hence the NA name ought never be drawn into public controversy. ” “For our own survival, we have no opinion on outside issues. ” “We don’t take sides. We don’t have any recommendations. ” (Narcotics Anonymous, Sixth Edition)

NA GROUPS AND MEDICATION “Many of us have watched as NA meetings become weighed down by disruptions, controversy, and negativity around this issue. ” “Yet, when these challenges are addressed through incorporating the spiritual principle* of our program, groups often become stronger and more focused as a result. ” “Recovery is often a demanding process with many ups and downs, and NA groups tend to experience similar challenges. ” (Board-approved service material)

IN TIMES OF ILLNESS “We have found that it is important for addicts to have at least one person with whom they can be completely honest. This person can be a sponsor, recovering family member, or trusted NA friend. ” “Members facing illness and injury may face intense feelings of loneliness, despair, and self-pity. We learn that pain shared is pain lessened in NA, and encourage others to reach out to us. ” “By listening to the experience, strength, and hope in meetings we are able to experience collective empathy. We fulfill our primary purpose by offering our support to other addicts with an attitude of care, love, and concern. ” (Fellowship-approved literature)

NA GROUPS AND MEDICATION “When group members freely share their own recovery and trusted servants welcome other members, groups are usually able to carry the NA message in a variety of potentially challenging situations. ” “The group can reflect on how it can practice principles such as tolerance, love, and compassion I situations that might cause concern. ” “One of the most effective ways a group can work to resolve these challenges is by discussing its primary purpose” (Board-approved service material)

FROM OUR TRADITIONS TRADITION ELEVEN: “This tradition deals with our relationship to those outside the Fellowship”. “Our public image consists of what we have to offer, a successful proven way of maintaining a drug-free lifestyle. ” “Our attraction is that we are successes in our own right. ” (Narcotics Anonymous, Sixth Edition)

NA GROUPS AND MEDICATION “When group members freely share their own recovery and trusted servants welcome other members, groups are usually able to carry the NA message in a variety of potentially challenging situations. ” “This doesn’t mean group members should correct or clean up what had been said, but they can freely share their own experience, strength, and hope, offering an additional perspective. ” “A loving and inclusive attitude on the part of the leader and group member is usually the most effective ay to move through these situations. ” (Board-approved service material)

IN TIMES OF ILLNESS “An unfortunate reality in our fellowship is that some members abuse their prescribed medication and relapse. Any mind- and mood-altering medication can be dangerous for addicts. ” “Members who relapse on prescribed medication may be reluctant to return to meetings for fear of being judged. Knowing that their lives are at stake, we treat these addicts with compassion. ” “Our experience shows that many NA members have been successful in taking medication as prescribed and maintaining their recovery. ” (Fellowship-approved literature)

NA GROUPS AND MEDICATION “The use of medication is an issue that many members have strong personal feelings about, but a group is not there to enforce, endorse, or oppose member’s personal opinions. ” “In NA, we purposely attract people who are ill, unstable, and in need of help. ” “Our challenge is to continue to practice tolerance, patience, and love, so that we create an atmosphere in which those ho want to recover can do so. ” (Board-approved service material)

IN TIMES OF ILLNESS “An aspect of addiction is the compulsive misuse and abuse of drugs, often at the expense of our physical and mental health. In recovery, we learn to be responsible for ourselves. For some addicts, this may mean seeking mental health treatment and taking medication as prescribed. ” “Our experience shows that there are times when our members have been prescribed mental health medication for symptoms resulting from our active addiction. Members in this situation often find that after a period of time in “recovery they are able to stop taking this medication under the supervision of their doctor. ” (Fellowship-approved literature)

NA GROUPS AND MEDICATION “The real question groups are left with is how to honor the NA philosophy of complete abstinence and still welcome addicts in our groups and meetings. ” “What is most important is that we don’t let our fears get in the way of our group’s ability to carry the NA message of hope and freedom. ” “The only requirement for membership is the desire to stop using. ” (Board-approved service material)

IN TIMES OF ILLNESS “The urge to allow ourselves to suffer unnecessarily rather than take medication may be great. We resist this urge to stubbornly insist that we know better than the doctor, refuse all medications, or neglect problems that require medical attention. ” “Likewise, ignoring health problems because of fear or pride may, in fact, make matters worse for us. Once again, we remind ourselves of the importance of making a conscious decision not to medicate ourselves or treat our own illnesses. ” (Fellowship-approved literature)

FROM OUR TRADITIONS TRADITION TWELVE: “In keeping with Tradition Twelve, the “I” becomes “we”. The spiritual foundation becomes more important than any one individual” “By working together for our common welfare, we achieve the true spirit of anonymity”. “While we may disagree as individuals, the spiritual principle of anonymity makes us all equal as members of the group”. (Narcotics Anonymous, Sixth Edition).

NA GROUPS AND MEDICATION “Some of us are being told that if we take meds we are not clean and should not share at meetings. Does this mean that those who suffer from depression should just disregard what our doctors are advising, even if we only take our meds as prescribed? ” “No matter what our personal opinions, observations, or experiences may be about the use of medication, the focus of the NA group must be on how we can work together to carry the NA message in our meeting. ” “No problem or disagreement is more significant than our need for each other’s support. ” (Board-approved service material)

IN TIMES OF ILLNESS “By living the Narcotics Anonymous program, we find a measure of stability in our lives. We apply the principles of the program to help us find spiritual well-being when we are ill. Sharing openly with our doctor and our sponsor, relying on a Higher Power, and practicing the Twelve Steps are important tools. ” “Some members recover in NA with mental illness that requires medication. Just as we wouldn’t suggest that an insulin-dependent diabetic addict stop taking their insulin, we don’t tell mentally ill addicts to stop taking their prescribed medication. ” (Fellowship-approved literature)

EXPERIENCE, STRENGTH, AND HOPE I THINK WE COVERED THIS AS A GROUP . TRADITION TWELVE: “Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all our traditions, ever reminding us to place principles before personalities. ” (Narcotics Anonymous, Sixth Edition)

JUST FOR TODAY… To be followed by a meeting .