
Alcoholics Anonymous is one of the many tools available to individuals recovering from substance abuse. It provides an opportunity to interact with others who are experiencing the same thing you are, right in the trenches with you. AA is a large organization, with more than 115,000 groups around the world. It’s been shown to be a successful tool for those working on themselves in recovery. The organization claims up to 75 percent of its members abstain from use, though it doesn’t track these numbers due to the anonymity expected here.
As effective as it is, many people want the easiest option possible for getting care. That’s why so many online AA meetings are now available. Are they safe? Are they the best option for you as you work on your recovery?
What Do AA Groups Provide?
Traditional AA groups involve anywhere from several people to large groups (depending on the format) coming together in privacy to talk about their experiences, thoughts and struggles as they abstain from using alcohol. Going to an in-person meeting offers many benefits, including personal interaction with people who understand exactly how you feel. It also creates opportunities for you to develop confidence in yourself as you share openly.
These groups provide several key benefits including:
- A safe space to share your thoughts
- Privacy in opening up about what you are going through
- An immediate helping hand to encourage you to not drink
- Support for dealing with life after abstaining, such as finding a job and handling personal relationships
- A way to experience strength, encouragement and companionship, many times leading to true friendships
These meetings allow you to share as much or as little as you need. They are meant to be comfortable but also encouraging. Led by a recovering alcoholic or a therapist, they generally center around the 12-step program, aiming to help people continue to work on their recovery.