We understand the urgency and importance of finding a supportive group, so our listings are regularly updated for accuracy. Each listing includes essential details like meeting time, address, and contact information. Our goal is to ensure that no matter where you are, a path to recovery is always within reach. World Services, Inc., is a resource for recovering alcoholics and other individuals. In our materials, you can find out more about Alcoholics Anonymous, its history, and how it works.
What to Expect at an A.A. Meeting
- It doesn’t cost anything to attend A.A.
- Local entities provide their meeting information voluntarily.
- You may call us directly for assistance or use our interactive map to identify the most suitable aa meeting near me for your needs, whether virtual or in person.
- Once they understand that your intent is not to lecture them but to provide support, they may be more open to discussing AA further.
Group consisted of only Bill, Dr. Bob, and a patient at an Akron hospital. In 1939, the program expanded, largely due to the publication of the book, Alcoholics Anonymous, which is known as the “Big Book.” The growth of people’s interest in A.A. Increased more after a 1941 article in the Saturday Evening Post about the group. We also discuss who can join Alcoholics Anonymous and what research has found about the effectiveness of attending these meetings when overcoming alcohol misuse or abuse. You can just sit and listen and learn more about recovery, or you can share about your situation. Members work together to help the alcoholic who still suffers.
- Meetings in person or online and connect with resources near you.
- For those struggling with addiction, it can be incredibly empowering and reassuring to know that you aren’t alone in your fight.
- “I discovered a closed women’s discussion group through the site, which offered exactly the supportive space I was seeking.”
- According to research, the answer is yes.
Attending Your First Local AA Meeting
Provides information on https://ecosoberhouse.com/ phone and online meetings around the world. From Alcoholics Anonymous’ (AA) perspective, the definition of alcoholism is inclusive and understanding. AA does not have a formal or scientific definition of alcoholism but generally considers it a physical craving and a mental compulsion to drink alcohol. This means that individuals can still drink even when the consequences are negative, experiencing a sense of loss of control once they start and obsessing about alcohol when not drinking. There are no official rules for sponsorship and you are free to choose your own sponsor. It should be someone you are comfortable talking to.
The Meeting Guide App
However, rest assured that you will be welcomed warmly and without pressure. No obligation to speak; many first-time attendees observe. Participation is entirely free, and judgment is never part of the process. “I discovered a closed women’s discussion group through the site, which offered exactly the supportive space I was seeking.” If you repeatedly drink more than you intend or want to, you may be an alcoholic.
- Each group’s GSR usually participates with the GSRs of other local groups in regular district meetings.
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is an international fellowship of men and women who have experienced alcohol addiction and work together to support other individuals who suffer from the same disease.
- AA members travel all over the world, delivering presentations in schools and prison facilities in order to get the word out that addiction can be overcome.
- One of the most important aspects of AA is working through the 12 steps.
The 12 Steps also provide structure on how to rebuild relationships with those affected by alcoholism, such as family and friends. You could even offer to go with them if they decide they would like some moral support. Finally, emphasize that the decision of whether or not someone joins AA is up to them—you are simply there for assistance if needed.
The organization also assists families affected by addiction by promoting better communication and understanding of the issue while advocating for better addiction treatment resources. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a fellowship founded in 1935 to help individuals addicted to alcohol to regain sobriety and abstinence. AA is an international, non-profit organization with more than 2 million active members across 182 countries. AA was established when its two founders, Bill Wilson and Bob Smith, attempted to address the alcohol problem among their group of friends in New York in 1935. The success of the program has been global, and today, many self-help groups based on AA’s 12 Step principles are still around.
Queer & Sober: No Man’s Land Women
This brought yet another flood of pleas. Each inquiry received a alcoholics anonymous personal letter and a small pamphlet. Attention was also drawn to the book Alcoholics Anonymous, which soon began circulating. Aided by mail from the office and A.A. Travelers from already-established centers, many new groups began.
Co-Founder Dr. Bob’s Major Impact in Ohio
Almost every alcoholism treatment tries to help the alcoholic maintain sobriety. Regardless of the road we follow, we all head for the same destination, recovery of the alcoholic person. Together, we can do what none of us could accomplish alone. We can serve as a source of drug addiction treatment personal experience and be an ongoing support system for recovering alcoholics.
A.A. Can Support Professionals
Individuals living in North America can find a local A.A. Meeting via the Alcoholics Anonymous website. Alternatively, it also allows site visitors to select a specific state or region, providing all meeting locations in that area. Meetings are opened by the chair, with some meetings then calling for recitation of the Serenity Prayer or a moment of silence.
