Originally Posted by
Morning Glory 
If abstinence is the goal of RR what do you suggest when a newly sober person finds themselves in an unbearable emotional or mental state? I would hate to see that labeled as the "Beast" when it is truly a mental disorder (Bi-Polar, Depression, PTSD, etc...)
I would recommend that they see someone qualified to deal with such things. There are a wide variety of mental health services available from legitimate sources, though almost all require abstinence in order to work. Anyone who has ever continued to drink while on anti-depressants or other psychiatric meds knows that they won't work very well if you do. RR does not oppose psychiatric medication or mental health services, or even medically supervised detox. This is mentioned in the book.
Originally Posted by
Morning Glory How would they know the difference between normal withdrawal and mental health issues in order to distinguish between dealing with the "Beast" or getting mental health treatment.
The Beast is simply the desire to intoxicate. Some disturbances, such as depression, are common and to be expected early on, but if they do not lift, there could be something else causing them. Standard psychiatric protocol usually requires 90 days of abstinence before a proper diagnosis distinct from withdrawal can be made, but one can certainly consult with a psychiatrist before that time. If in doubt, consult with a mental health professional.