What is an Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting Like? What to Expect

One of the best parts of AA, NA and other 12-step groups is that they aren’t exclusive to different varieties of addicts. If you’re in recovery, there’s a place for you in one of these many communities. It’s likely that you’ll walk into your first meeting feeling positive about your chances to fit right in. At first, however, your experience may be different than what you expected. Meeting Guide syncs with area, district, intergroup/central offices and international general service office websites, relaying meeting information from more than 400 A.A.

Getting connected to Meeting Guide

• The 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous provide a structured path toward sobriety, self-reflection, andpersonal growth.
• Its success lies in the shared responsibility and commitment among members.
• Members find strength in collective storytelling, where each narrative contributes to a broader understanding of recovery’s challenges and triumphs.
• This might include forgiveness, anger, spiritual growth, or relapse prevention.
• But at the same time, you don’t want to count out an AA meeting just because it isn’t centered around your identity.

Together we stand united as one group consisting of men and women admitting that we are powerless over alcohol. Our meetings keep our focus on sober living while maintaining a peaceful and spiritual life. Below are a variety of options to assist you in Fort Wayne and the surrounding areas of Indiana and Ohio, to help you find the right type of meeting that best fits your schedule. Open Meetings are available to anyone interested in Alcoholics Anonymous’ program of recovery from alcoholism. The AA meeting schedule for Monterey is available as an online directory and can be searched by location and meeting type. You can find AA literature at meetings and in our Central Office at 546 Hartnell Street, Suite E across the street from the Post Office in Monterey.

Al-Anon Times Corner

This community-driven approach is essential in empowering individuals to maintain their sobriety by providing a network of understanding peers. Within AA meetings, attendees share personal stories, experiences, and strategies for navigating sobriety, fostering an environment of mutual encouragement. The shared experiences strengthen bonds among members, making each meeting a powerful session of collective resilience. By participating in this supportive environment, members learn from one another, drawing on the collective strength to overcome challenges and celebrate victories.

For More Information on Meetings and Times Call: 1 ( 915-3341

AA isn’t a one-size-fits-all program—thousands of meetings exist around the world, each with its own format, atmosphere, and identity. That said, every alcohol support group offers a different vibe, and finding one that matches your energy and goals may take some time. Open meetings are available to anyone interested in Alcoholics Anonymous’s program of recovery from alcoholism.

The ongoing evolution of meeting formats reflects a broader paradigm shift within Alcoholics Anonymous as it adapts to changing times and technologies. Virtual meetings have surged in popularity, particularly during periods when physical gatherings pose health risks. In these settings, participants find a platform to share experiences and draw strength from a collective commitment to sobriety.

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These topics are not always appropriate for discussion in a general AA meeting. You may choose to attend other 12-step-based meetings specific to other substances in addition to AA. If you have a history with aa meetings: what they are, types and format, schedule multiple substances, the community encourages you to attend any meetings that help you feel supported. Getting professional treatment for polysubstance disorder is also recommended. There is no intake process, and there is an expectation of anonymity and privacy, meaning that you do not discuss what happened in the meeting, what was shared, or who you saw there.

• Some groups, with the consent of the prospective member, have an A.A.
• Through Newcomer meetings insights, new attendees can learn about the essential AA sponsorship roles and how these relationships can profoundly impact their recovery journey.
• Meeting Guide offers an online support site where users can easily find answers to frequently asked questions.
• Each person can be affected differently, but a loved one’s addiction can often evoke feelings of worry, frustration, isolation, helplessness, and self-criticism.
• Armed with the appropriate knowledge, families can make informed decisions, advocating effectively for their loved ones’ care.

This tailored approach to meeting selection not only enhances participation but also fosters a supportive environment conducive to successful recovery outcomes. Family dynamics and social pressures further compound the recovery journey. A supportive family can play a transformative role, yet unresolved conflicts or misunderstandings among family members often serve as significant hurdles. Consequently, participating in family therapy can help address these complex issues. Furthermore, societal stigmas and misconceptions about addiction often contribute to feelings of shame and isolation, which can hinder recovery efforts. Breaking free from these stigmas by engaging with Public Support Groups provides a platform for open discussion, validation, and collective healing.

Once acknowledged, individuals can work to mitigate them through therapy, behavioral changes, and support systems. The process of identifying these barriers helps in devising effective coping strategies, enabling individuals to maintain a steady course toward sobriety. Hearing testimonials from others who have successfully navigated the 12 steps provides invaluable hope and encouragement for newer members.

That way, if you feel triggered, you can pick up a phone rather than a drink. If no one approaches you, see the chairperson at the end of meeting and mention you are new. Closed meetings (C) are limited to AA members and those who think they have a drinking problem. If you think you have a problem with alcohol, you are welcome to attend this meeting.

While meetings may mention a “higher power,” members define that concept individually. People of all beliefs—including atheists and agnostics—are welcome. Members do not interrupt one another, and there are no debates or cross-talk.

The AA Meetings Directory serves as an indispensable bridge, linking users to Alcoholics Anonymous meetings throughout the nation. By providing a detailed listing that includes specifics such as meeting time, format, and location, the directory demystifies the logistics of attending AA meetings. For those navigating addiction treatment services, understanding the diverse landscape of AA meetings can be pivotal in laying the groundwork for lasting sobriety. As AA continues to evolve, hybrid meeting formats have emerged, blending in-person and virtual elements to maximize accessibility and participation. This approach caters to those who seek the camaraderie of face-to-face interaction while also accommodating those who may prefer or require a digital connection.

After that, the chairperson may ask if there are any people new to AA who would like to introduce themselves. You don’t have to introduce yourself, but it can be helpful if you’re attending your first meeting. There are local meetings you can attend in person or virtually. There are also meetings all over the world.Click on the links below to search for a meeting. Soon you will discover a group where you feel comfortable, and be surrounded by people who freely offer you support on your journey of recovery. Sometimes a referral source like a court or a treatment center will ask that you get proof of attendance at AA meetings.