Author: Gary Jackson

Alcoholics Anonymous A Support Group For Alcoholism

The 12 traditions of AA serve as the foundation of the organization. Because of these, members are able to rest assured that AA is a safe place to share their experiences and get support for their alcohol use disorder (AUD). AA was originally founded on the principles of the Oxford Group, a Christian-based self-help group. Initially, founder Bill Wilson did not have much success in helping those struggling with drinking problems get and remain sober. It was suggested that Wilson pay more attention to the scientific aspects of alcoholism treatment rather than the Christian elements of recovery.

  • An online forum may also limit the extent that participants are able to express warmth to others in the group.
  • To find out more about how Alateen can help, check out Teen Corner.
  • SOS members aim to support one another in escaping the first cycle and establishing the second cycle.
  • When you’re going through a challenging or traumatic time, family members and friends may sympathize, but they don’t always know what to say or the best ways to help.
  • Each group follows a different format and philosophy, and they offer varying levels of availability.

The addition of AA steps, meetings and sponsors has helped the organization become recognizable as an effective support group to millions of people worldwide. Some people feel they need to attend an AA meeting every day. Some people only go occasionally, when they feel they need extra help in staying sober. As the meeting progresses, you’ll naturally get a better idea of the types of people attending it—and whether or not they’re a group you want to share your recovery with. The primary focus is promoting a product or service.

The Organization Of AA

By joining a support group, it means you’re acknowledging and accepting the fact that the issue you’re facing is real, you can no longer avoid dealing with it, and you need help. These can be hard things to accept, but there are ways to overcome the obstacles to taking that first step. Discussions in a support group can get heavy at times and drag down the group’s energy.

aa support groups

Rules for some support groups require those who are mandated reporters to announce this fact to the group before the meeting starts, but this may not always be the case. Being around your fellow support group members can help boost your mood and sense of optimism, giving you the emotional reserves to realistically envision a better future. There are tens of thousands of support groups nationally and globally, in-person and online. There’s one available for nearly every problem and condition.

Other peer support groups for alcohol abuse

What’s more, the lack of in-person contact can diminish communication which is so vital to support group participation. An online forum may also limit the extent that participants are able to express warmth to others in the group. Group members share what’s working for them, and they inspire others to do the same.

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. Call now to connect with a treatment provider and start your recovery journey. 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.

Support Groups for Families of Addicts and Alcoholics

Sharing your own experiences with the group can help ease your emotional burden and feelings of isolation. As others in the group share their stories, you can gain valuable insight about how others deal with similar situations. Of course, the online support group format has some disadvantages. It can be more difficult for participants to interpret the facial expressions and body language of other participants.

aa support groups

In other cases, a person might simply disagree with the group’s goal of total abstinence. Use the filter options to find upcoming meetings on specific days or types such as “Tuesday” “Big Book”, “Speaker”, or “Proof of Attendance”. Meetings appear as upcoming by time and are shown in your local time zone
To check or change your local time zone, look underneath the search and filter options. Reach out to a treatment provider for free today for immediate assistance. Our common welfare should come first; personal recovery depends upon AA unity. AA is not run by a leadership team, but rather, by members who are former alcoholics with a desire to help others.