Content
AA is characterized as a self-help group whose members meet regularly in order to share their personal experiences with alcohol and offer each other kindness, love, and care in a non-judgmental setting. The focus is on helping each individual identify their own motivations in order to improve their life. Every individual who takes part in an AA group is advised to read the Big Book, the bible of the organization. The Big Book provides stories of inspiration and recovery resources that will help you on your journey to achieving long-term sobriety. In it, the book explains both the 12 steps and 12 traditions of AA.
It is one of the oldest and most successful organizations of its kind, with over two million members worldwide. While AA may not be free in all aspects, there are no dues or fees charged for membership at the local level. AA meetings also provide an invaluable way to connect with like-minded individuals.
Have a problem with alcohol? There is a solution.
Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him. Alcoholics Anonymous has no opinion on outside issues; hence the AA name ought never be drawn into public controversy. Every AA group ought to be fully self-supporting, declining outside contributions. An AA group ought never endorse, finance, or lend the AA name to any related facility or outside enterprise, lest problems of money, property, and prestige divert us from our primary purpose.
- Whatever life challenges you have been through or are dealing with currently, there are people in AA who have had that experience and got through it clean and sober.
- Has helped more than two million alcoholics stop drinking.
- Whether you’re hoping to stay sober or just need support from understanding people, attending these meetings can provide a wealth of knowledge, support, and comfort during difficult times.
- John C. Umhau, MD, MPH, CPE is board-certified in addiction medicine and preventative medicine.
- For people seeking recovery, AA meetings provide a widely available and effective support system comprising of people who have gone through the same kinds of struggles.
The effect of AA can be best seen when a correct “dose” is given, typically 90 meetings in 90 days. Trying a couple meetings is not an adequate trial. Alcoholics Anonymous, or AA as it is widely known, has been around since it was founded in 1935 by https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/what-is-alcoholics-anonymous/ Bill W. We do not impose our experience with problem drinking on others, but we do share it when we are asked to do so. We know our own sobriety depends on connecting with other alcoholics. A.A.’s Twelve Steps are a set of spiritual principles.
Scholarly publications
The person leading the meeting chooses a topic and members to take turns sharing their experience on the topic. Some AA meetings are designated for a specific purpose, such as 12-step study groups or beginners’ meetings designed to teach newcomers about the basics of the program. You don’t have to start your recovery journey alone. Treatment providers are available 24/7 to answer your questions about rehab, whether it’s for you or a loved one. Submit your number and receive a free call today from a treatment provider. If you’re interested in support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous, don’t wait to get started.
Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) addresses compulsions related to relationships, referred to as codependency. If someone you care about has a drinking problem, A.A. Has helped more than two million alcoholics stop drinking.