Approximately one in every 13 adults in the United States overuse alcohol. It is a social, psychological, and health concern for everyone involved. Regaining control of your life after addressing alcoholism is a lifelong challenge. Most people need assistance to stop drinking, and maintain their alcohol-free lifestyle. For over 80 years, Alcoholics Anonymous has provided a safe place for people to talk about their addiction and to learn how to stay sober. Knowing how to find a meeting and get involved will help anyone who wants to make a change.
Talk to Professionals
Anyone seeking help from counselors, rehabilitation facilities, or medical providers for alcoholism should talk to them about AA meetings. Most will have information about how the program works, what to expect, and how to begin. Get the contact information for the meetings or when and where they meet.
Ask a Friend
Alcohol abusers often have friends with the same habits. AA works well because it allows people to anonymously attend the meetings and find support and friendship without advertising personal details. It is acceptable to ask a now-sober friend if they know of nearby meetings but avoid asking if they attend. Most people prefer this information remain confidential. Some people find it comfortable to have a friend or colleague attend with them, but do not feel obligated to accept the invitation. It is always acceptable to prefer to go alone and join meetings with only strangers.
Check Online Resources
Many groups advertise local meetings online. Hospitals, recovery centers, and state health organizations may list the details on their websites. Online meetings also exist for those who cannot find something locally. These options can also help those with physical conditions that restrict the ability to attend, do not have transportation, or are uncomfortable with in-person meetings. Online groups work for some people and may lack the impact needed by others. Recovery is a personal experience, so people need to do what works best for them.
Ask for Yourself
Families can encourage alcoholics to attend a meeting or get help, but they cannot force someone to make this step. The effort to overcome an addiction or alcoholism only works when the alcoholic decides to do it themselves.
Family members, including children, should seek out Al-anon family groups. These meetings help people affected by the alcohol or drug use of someone else. The groups enable people to work through their emotions and learn how to interact more effectively with those who abuse drugs or alcohol.
Remember Certain Guidelines
Anyone attending a meeting for the first time must ensure they choose a legitimate group that follows the organization guidelines. AA insists on a specific method because it works and needs to remain accessible to everyone.
- AA does not charge anyone to attend the meetings
- AA will not kick out someone who must restart their sobriety effort
- The group has no affiliation with any specific religion
- People do not need to leave their personal details or provide their name at a meeting
- Everyone that needs help with their substance use is welcome to a meeting
- Attendees do not need to be members of the community where they attend
- Self-treated sober individuals are also welcome even if they continue to remain sober
- There is no obligation to share stories with the group
- AA does not actively recruit people into the group or use pressure tactics to get people to return
- People can attend as few or as many meetings as they need or want
Alcohol use that begins to take time away from responsibilities or previously enjoyable activities may be alcohol abuse. If you are ready to make a change, we can help. We have counselors available 24 hours a day. Call 844-844-3463.