For too many, the UAE can be a lonely, even isolating place and some of those who find themselves in difficult circumstances turn to alcohol for solace. For those who find themselves afflicted by alcoholism, it can sometimes seem like there are few avenues for help, and the stigma, particularly among Arab, Emirati and Muslim victims, can hold them back from seeking treatment.
Alcoholism is a difficult subject to deal with, but, despite some assumptions to the contrary, it is a disease that can and does strike Emiratis. As this newspaper reported yesterday, many of its victims are so concerned with anonymity and so afraid of being exposed as alcoholics that they would rather seek treatment abroad.
While it is positive that those with the disease seek treatment, looking for help far from home brings with it particular issues. With alcoholism, there is no real “cure”. Instead, staying sober often requires regular maintenance and support from those also recovering. Going abroad to be “cured” and returning to a city without support only makes it more likely that victims will relapse.
That’s why the presence of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), a worldwide support group, in the UAE is so important. By gathering regularly, those who attend can support each other. But organisers sometimes express concern that they are not reaching all those they could help and that some are still afraid to seek treatment. At the same time, the average age of those seeking treatment has gone down – it is now 35 in Dubai compared with a worryingly young age that makes it all the more likely that those afflicted don’t have support networks such as families to help them understand and deal with their illness.
Like other taboos, alcoholism thrives in the shadows. By shedding light on this topic, by discussing it openly, even if victims are anonymous, it is more likely that those who are currently suffering, or fear they might be, will feel empowered to take action, find a supportive atmosphere, and finally begin to conquer their demons.
