Definitions by Twelve-Step slang

running the show 

(adverb) How devout members of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) describe the attitude and actions of an alcoholic who is not following the principles of the Twelve-Step program and the Big Book.

They believe that this person does not "know how to take direction."

"Sandy still thinks she can drink only on weekends and stop during the week. She continues to run the show."

running the show by Twelve-Step slang November 20, 2004

earth people 

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) speak for non-alcoholic/addicted persons.

Also referred to as normal people.

"I wish I was like that earth person who just left the bar with her drink glass still half full!"

earth people by Twelve-Step slang November 17, 2004

Club Betty 

The Betty Ford Center (BFC). A very comfortable drug and alcohol rehab in Rancho Mirage (Palm Springs area), California. Term used by current and former (alumini) patients of the center.

"While getting clean at Club Betty, I took in sun on my patio with the mountain view, hung out at the pool, and worked out with the personal trainer."

Club Betty by Twelve-Step slang November 10, 2004

slip

A relapse on alcohol or drugs, usually short in duration with minimal harm done. Contrasted with doing some homework.

"Oh, it just was a little slip, but now I'm going to meetings everyday and working a strong program."

slip by Twelve-Step slang November 7, 2004

eating pills 

The action of an addict who consumes large amounts of pharmaceuticals, by mouth.

"I was eating at least 40 to 50 Vicodins a day before I checked myself into rapid opiate detox."

eating pills by Twelve-Step slang October 26, 2004

program people 

Persons who are members of Twelve-Step groups (programs), e.g., AA, NA, CA, MA, SA, SLA, OA, CODA, and PA.

Bill hangs out only with program people since he got sober.

program people by Twelve-Step slang October 24, 2004

CA 

Cocaine Anonymous.
A Twelve-Step fellowship / group in the tradition of AA. For those individuals addicted to cocaine (blow, crack) and their lives have become unmanagable.

"Finding my old crack pipe might be a trigger, so I better get to a CA meeting!"

CA by Twelve-Step slang October 24, 2004