This is true even if the meeting in question utilizes the original 12 Steps of AA with its Christian underpinnings. Religious language will be used, but it can be contextualized and the 12 steps can be of benefit nonetheless. As stated in the 12 Traditions of AA, a desire for sobriety is the only requirement for membership https://unitaxinternational.co/partnership-financial-statements-vs-corporate/ in AA. Our user-friendly map and directory allow you to easily enter your city or ZIP code to access a list of available in-person and online meetings.
About Meeting Guide
While some studies have suggested that it can be a useful tool in recovery, other research has failed to show evidence of its ability to promote abstinence or reduce relapse risk. For this reason, many believe that other forms of treatment, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) are more effective in engaging individuals with recovery. 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 first promise of AA is that members acknowledge they are powerless over their addiction to alcohol and can’t get better on their own.
- The 12 Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous states that the only requirement for AA membership is a desire to be sober.
- The GSO Archives helps individuals with an interest in discovering A.A.’s roots and its growth around the world.
- By guiding those battling alcohol addiction towards AA meetings andeffective recovery methods, we strive to mitigate the risk of relapse.
This Is A.A. – An introduction to the A.A. recovery program
Chairpersonmay request that participants confine their discussionto matters pertaining to recovery from alcoholism. Our website provides access to information and support for people seeking help. We are not a medical center or doctors and cannot prescribe treatment.
For More Information on Meetings and Times Call: 1 ( 915-3341
Message reaches those who may be the most in need. Service committees, this work may involve working with professionals or other non-A.A. The general service representatives (GSRs) of the U.S. and Canada are the foundation of our general service structure. Just as members make up a community, each A.A. Through your GSR, you can make your group’s voice heard.
The purpose of Alcoholics Anonymous is to provide mutual support for those in recovery from alcoholism. It does this through its Twelve Steps, which focus on embracing a higher power, surrendering to God’s will, and relying on peer support to remain sober. Many people find that being around others who are also dealing with addiction helps them stay focused and motivated to remain sober. AA meetings provide a place where all members can share their experiences and provide support for one another. Indeed, you are most welcome to the open AA meetings even if you feel that you are not an alcoholic.

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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. Has been helping alcoholics recover for more than 80 years. A.A.’s program of recovery is built on the simple foundation of one alcoholic sharing with another. If your drinking is out of control, A.A.
The best place to start getting involved is through an A.A. alcoholics anonymous Participating in a group helps ensure that when a person reaches out for help, A.A. Let the General Service Office know of any experiences or challenges your group faces or has solved. This sharing is combined and shared when requested, so we all can learn from each other.
- Contact GSO for copies of the New Group Form, which should be completed and returned for the new group to be listed.
- Chairpersonmay request that participants confine their discussionto matters pertaining to recovery from alcoholism.
- Anyone with a desire to stop drinking is welcome, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, income or profession.
- Indeed, you are most welcome to the open AA meetings even if you feel that you are not an alcoholic.
- A sponsor should be patient, understanding, and empathetic as well as knowledgeable and experienced in the battle against alcoholism.
We publish items in English, Spanish and French. We also publish and license translations in international languages for recovering alcoholics around the world. Many of our translated materials are in our literature catalog. Alcoholics Anonymous is an international fellowship of men and women who have found a solution to their drinking problem. It is nonprofessional, self-supporting, multiracial, apolitical, and available almost everywhere.

For example, 12 and 12 Step 1 teaches individuals to admit powerlessness over alcohol, while Step 2 Twelve and Twelve focuses on finding spiritual strength. The process includes creating a human being the exact nature of personal shortcomings, addressing these flaws, and achieving a spiritual awakening through prayer and meditation. AA doesn’t align with any specific religion, but it is spiritual in nature. The Alcoholics Anonymous program encourages members to introspect and believe in a “higher power” as part of their recovery process. The general service representative (GSR) is an elected member of your home group. The GSR is your home group’s link to A.A.
Members start out providing service in their group. Has helped millions recover from alcoholism – to get sober and stay sober. A.A.’s Twelve Steps are a set of spiritual principles. When practiced as a way of life, they can expel the obsession to drink and enable the sufferer to recover from alcoholism. Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of people who come together to solve their drinking problem.
The Big Book
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.