By Buddy TBuddy T is a writer and founding member of the Online Al-Anon Outreach Committee with decades of experience writing about alcoholism. Because he is a member of a support group that stresses the importance of anonymity at the public level, he does not use his photograph or his real name on this website. Fortunately, there are many different types of meetings for people from different backgrounds or with similar situations. There are no dues or fees, so it doesn’t cost anything to try it out. As it is widely known, was founded in 1935 by Bill W. While each of these men had their own journey of recovery, it wasn’t until they met face to face that they realized the power of speaking amphetamine addiction treatment with a “fellow sufferer” for achieving complete sobriety.
International Connections
- AA members, often referred to simply as “members,” are individuals from various walks of life who have acknowledged their alcohol use disorder and are committed to quitting drinking.
- Some of us drank for many years before coming to the realisation we could not handle alcohol.
- The 12 Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous are guiding principles that ensure the unity, stability, and integrity of the A.A.
- We are a Fellowship of people who have lost the ability to control our drinking and have found ourselves in various kinds of trouble as a result of drinking.
Another assurance of AA is that you will continue working hard by helping others suffering from the same kind of problem you do. As part of the 12 steps, members prioritize supporting others going through the same transition as they enter recovery. 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.
Is there an alcoholic in your life?
It involves not only attending meetings, but also being part of the AA service structure and connecting with other members on a global level. For individuals seeking a sponsor in AA or NA, there are several steps they can take. They can raise their hands at the end of meetings, announce to the group that they are looking for a sponsor, or approach someone in the group one-on-one. It is recommended, however, not to rush into being a sponsor without having had a sponsor oneself and having worked through the 12-Steps 1.
- The 12 traditions of AA were intended to stabilize the program and keep it freed from outside influences.
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) has become a trusted resource for individuals seeking support and clarity about their relationship with alcohol.
- Our public relations policy is based on attraction rather than promotion; we need always maintain personal anonymity at the level of press, radio, and films.
- Through these meetings, individuals in recovery can connect with others who understand their struggles, share their experiences, and learn from the wisdom and insights of more experienced members.
Thank you! If it’s time for you or a loved on to make a change…
The Cleveland group, with only twenty members, sought to help those alcoholics. Alcoholics sober only a few weeks were set to work on https://www.jurgenvandervelde.com/how-to-stay-motivated-in-recovery/ brand-new cases. This was a new departure, and the results were fantastic.
Tough days might come, but with our supportive sober community, you’re never alone. Meeting | Alcoholics Anonymous.” What to Expect at an A.A. Meeting | Alcoholics Anonymous, /information-about-meetings. In some cases, courts may recommend AA meetings as part of sentencing or rehabilitation for alcohol-related offenses, though AA remains independent of legal matters. This confidentiality fosters trust, honesty, and openness among members, enabling them to share their struggles and experiences without fear of exposure or judgment from the outside world. Talk to our caring professionals today and take the first step toward living a fulfilling, addiction-free life.
The Foundations of Alcoholics Anonymous: Big Book, Steps, and Traditions
Founded in 1935, this non-profit organization has grown to become the world’s most widely recognized and accepted form of mutual aid for people struggling with alcoholism. Through its 12-step program, members learn to stay sober and support each other as they work together to recover. Alcoholics Anonymous works by providing a structured, peer-supported recovery program based on the 12-step model, regular meetings, and mentorship what is alcoholics anonymous through sponsorship. The program helps individuals achieve and maintain sobriety through self-reflection, behavioral accountability, and social reinforcement. Alcoholics Anonymous has been a major source of help and hope for millions of people around the world who are struggling with alcohol addiction. Through shared experience, understanding, and acceptance, AA creates a place of refuge where individuals can find lasting recovery from alcoholism.
Structure and governance
AA is based on the belief that alcoholism is a disease that can be managed through a spiritual and personal transformation. The program emphasizes the importance of admitting one’s powerlessness over alcohol, making amends to those harmed, and finding a higher power or purpose to guide the recovery process. Is to help individuals achieve and maintain sobriety through fellowship and the Twelve Steps, introduced in the 1939 book Alcoholics Anonymous. Operates globally, offering free, anonymous support for those struggling with alcohol addiction.
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a worldwide organization designed to help former alcoholics support one another throughout their recovery journey while maintaining their sobriety.
- Members, professionals and the general public want to learn more about A.A.
- These meetings occur through video conferencing platforms, chat rooms, or phone calls, making AA more accessible to those who cannot attend in-person sessions due to health, travel, or privacy concerns.
- Each AA program has guidelines for who counts as a member, and meetings are usually closed unless otherwise stated.
- It’s important to keep in mind that 12-step programs are spiritual, not religious.
Make your AA Journey Long-lasting with Design for Recovery
Remember that while AA has been instrumental in helping numerous individuals achieve sobriety, it’s important to note that it may not be equally effective for everyone. Specialized meetings cater to specific demographics or needs within the AA community. Examples include meetings for young adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, women, or professionals.
About AA
We in AA are men and women who have discovered, and admitted, that we cannot control alcohol. We have learned that we must live without it if we are to avoid disaster for ourselves and those close to us. AA’s Twelve Traditions apply to the life of the Fellowship itself.