The nature and extent of any group’s involvement in this process is entirely up to the individual group. Member serving as “leader” or “chair” opens the meeting using that group’s format, and selects a topic for discussion. Background for many topic meetings derives from A.A. Literature, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (Big Book), Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, As Bill Sees It, Daily Reflections, and from AA Grapevine. NA believes in an abstinence model of recovery, which means being completely drug free. But if you’re addicted to opioids, you may be taking buprenorphine maintenance therapy (BMT).
This usually happens before the meeting starts. I hope I can ease some of the stress that comes along with going to your first meeting. A lot of people are under the impression that they get put under a spotlight at the front of the room and have to tell their entire life’s story at the first meeting they attend. “I’m Kate, um, I’m an alcoholic.” This is how Hollywood usually portrays AA, and it’s not that accurate. If actively listening is what helps you maintain sobriety, then that’s all you have to do in AA meetings. A typical AA meeting lasts 60 to 90 minutes, although this may vary depending on the type and format of the individual meeting.
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- If you’re curious about what to expect at an A.A.
- AA meetings are usually opened by the chairperson reading a set format, such as a short welcome speech.
- At some meetings, one or two members might stand up and give their story and testimony about their recovery through the A.A.
- Other members will continue, one reciting the 12 steps of the program, and another reciting the 12 principles of recovery.
What Is Emotional Sobriety In AA?
The meetings aren’t meant to be group therapy sessions. The goal is to create a safe environment where people addicted to substances can connect with each other and support each other’s recovery. NA started in California in the 1950s as an offshoot of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Today, it holds more than 70,000 regular meetings in 144 countries. The program is open to anyone who is addicted to drugs.
- Closed meetings are reserved only for those with addiction issues.
- You can always say something to that person after the meeting or during the break.
- While that first meeting can be very intimidating, it’s crucial to keep an open mind—remember, this one meeting isn’t the end-all be-all of your recovery.
- A closed meeting is designed for AA members, keeping in mind the only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking.
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What Actually Happens In an AA Meeting?
Encourages members to seek additional support, whether through therapy, treatment facilities, or other resources. By integrating mental health into the recovery process, A.A. Ensures that attendees have the tools to rebuild their lives comprehensively. Mental health plays a critical role in recovery.
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Closed meetings, however, are restricted to people who are members of AA. After about 10 minutes, there are 50 people who are seated in a semi-circle of chairs. One person sits in the middle of the circle. They are the meeting chairperson for that particular day. Meetings are held in-person, online, or on the telephone.
What type of meetings are there?
There are no membership fees, and NA is an independent organization with no links to any treatment centers or religious groups. During an AA open talk, somebody may say something you want to respond what to expect at an a a. meeting alcoholics anonymous to directly. Do not talk to somebody else directly during their sharing time.
But there is no obligation to share if that would make you uncomfortable. Declining does not exclude you from participating in the rest of the meeting if you eventually feel like doing so. The prayer helps set a reflective and communal tone for the rest of the meeting. (AA is) a bunch of drunks talking to a bunch of drunks…
Inside the room, there are people sitting here and there; some talking together, some sitting alone. Meetings typically last 60 to 90 minutes, although some may be shorter or longer. You can often check the meetings posted schedule to learn more. It is the problem drinker who is our concern. We cannot predict who will recover, nor have we the authority to decide how recovery should be sought by any other alcoholic.
A.A. Membership: A Lifelong Commitment
These conversations not only normalize mental health struggles but also provide practical insights into managing them. Meeting mirrors other formats, with sharing sessions and reflections, but the emphasis remains on creating a safe space where vulnerability is encouraged. Members often cite this intimacy as one of the most impactful aspects of their recovery journey. For individuals living in a structured sober environment, attending a first meeting is often supported by peers or staff, ensuring a smooth introduction to the process.
There are also various other types of discussion meetings. Meetings are a cornerstone of recovery for individuals seeking sobriety. These sessions provide a structured environment that fosters connection, accountability, and emotional growth.
Many groups make it a practice to read aloud pertinent material from the Big Book or Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions at the beginning of the meeting. If you want to continue with the program, NA recommends that new members go to a meeting every day for at least 90 days. From there, progress looks different for everyone.