When you decide to begin your journey toward recovery from alcohol use, many things can feel overwhelming right away. Like stepping into your first Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meeting. The novelty, the not knowing what to expect, the need to ask for help – each of these will weigh in on you in different ways. But when you get to know what to expect, to some extent, it will reduce these anxieties. So, in this guide, we will break down what the first AA experience is like for AA newcomers, and how such firsts can help you in your journey toward sobriety.
What Is Alcoholics Anonymous?
Alcoholics Anonymous, or AA, was founded in 1935 by Dr. Bob Smith and Bill Wilson. AA is an informal peer group that offers addiction support to those considering or willing to become sober. What began as a small group in Ohio now boasts a robust presence in nearly 180 countries around the world and has played a role in over 2 million members achieving sobriety. Over time, this success has given rise to sister groups such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA), Co-Dependents Anonymous, and so on.
The core of AA’s philosophy lies in its 12 steps – a set of principles that are based on declaring powerlessness over alcohol use, seeking help, introspection, service, and personal growth. As members navigate the 12 steps, they will slowly be able to move toward sobriety. AA can be a stand-alone option or can be incorporated into other forms of treatment, like inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation (rehab).
AA Meeting Types
As we told you, Alcoholics Anonymous has a strong presence in 180 countries, including various cities like Los Angeles. Wherever you live, there is likely to be an AA group near you. AA groups hold regular meetings – both offline and online. AA meetings are free of cost, however, you can contribute if you want. These meetings will be based on 12-step reflections, “Alcoholics Anonymous” book or the Big Book readings, story sharing, group reflections, and socialization. While this is the format of an AA meeting, there are two different types of AA meetings you need to be aware of:
Open Meetings – These are available to anyone who is interested in AA’s principles of recovering from alcohol use. It is ideal if you have just begun exploring. Even those who just want to support a loved one can also attend this meeting.
Closed Meetings – These meetings are meant only for those who are looking to become sober. So, there is a more intimate focus in closed meetings.
Please note, if you are an AA newcomer, you can also try out the newcomer meetings, which are introductory. You can ask and receive answers to your questions as well.
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Where Do AA Meetings Happen?
Alcoholics Anonymous meetings happen in-person or online – some are even conducted over the telephone. Depending on your preferences, you only need to Google “AA meetings near me,” and you will find the list of meetings near you. You will also find specifically tailored meetings for certain groups like young adults, women, the LGBTQIA+ community, veterans, and so on.
In-person meetings can typically take place in treatment centers, churches, community centers, and office buildings. In cities like Los Angeles, you will find that meetings even take place in outdoor settings like the beachside. Meanwhile, online meetings mostly happen on Zoom, where everyone’s video is typically turned off.
Stepping Through the Door: First Impressions & Friendly Faces
When you finally choose the Alcoholics Anonymous meeting you want to attend – either by reference or looking up online – when the day finally arrives, it can be challenging; no matter how prepared you are.
Here are some things you can do to ease the nerves:
- Wake up early and go for a walk or a jog.
- Eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water.
- If you want to meditate or practice mindfulness, this is a good time.
- Arrive a little early – 5 or 10 minutes early really helps.
- Most meetings will have those who will greet you and introduce you to the format of the meeting – return the gesture with a warm smile and a quick introduction.
What Actually Happens During the AA Meeting?
Now we come to the real thing. Generally speaking, the chair opens the meeting with the Alcoholics Anonymous preamble and a few remarks that set the tone for the meeting. This is followed by a moment of silence or the Serenity Prayer. Then, the chair will call on the AA newcomers to introduce themselves. It is not mandatory that you do so, but it will be helpful for others to get to know you and why you are there. You can be prepared for this in advance.
Then, the meetings will begin with a reading from the Big Book, post which statements regarding the importance of anonymity and privacy will be reinforced. In the close, members either observe a moment of silence and follow it with a prayer or a recitation of the Responsibility Statement.
Once the meeting is done, members will gather together and socialize. This is a good time for you to introduce yourself to others and for others to introduce themselves to you. This will also be helpful to you, as many will share their experiences in getting sober, so you do not know what might speak to you.
If This Is Your First Time – Here Are Some Tips
As an AA newcomer, you will mostly be required to sit back, listen, and reflect. You are not really on the stage as of yet. You will be expected to introduce yourself, so this is how you can go about it:
“Hello, I’m (your name). This is my first meeting, and I am grateful to be here.”
Yes, that is all it takes. If you want to speak a bit more of how you are there and why you are there, that is totally up to you. But you really do not have to.
Post-Meeting – Finding Connections
The main reason why Alcoholics Anonymous exists and why it is so successful is because of its ability to get members to connect with one another. When the format AA meetings end, many linger – you might see the old-timers greet each other with smiles, hugs, and one-on-one chats.
You will find that many will introduce themselves to you if it is your first time – this is your safe space to ask the questions you want – say you want a sponsor (someone who will provide you one-on-one support in navigating the 12 steps), you can ask that here. Or any other questions, really, AA is a very open, welcoming community that runs on respect and honor. You can feel free to open up.
Finding Your Fit: Meeting Types & Inclusion
Please remember, when you first step into an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, it is not really necessary that it meets your vibe right away. You might have to try out different meetings of different formats before you find your tribe.
You can try open or closed meetings, or you can even try youth, gender-specific, and LGBTQIA+ meetings to see what matches your comfort zone. You can also try out online and hybrid AA meetings when you cannot attend them in person.
Even more so, you can try out different formats like Big Book meetings, speaker meetings, and step study meetings to see what feels right.
Why AA Works: Safety, Anonymity & Shared Stories
Alcoholics Anonymous runs on anonymity and trust. What you share remains in the meeting – moreover, you can only share what you choose. For instance, if you only want to share your first name, that is okay. You only share that. There is no pressure to do anything.
Moreover, in sharing, you will find strength. You will also give strength over time. You can find true inspiration and motivation in how others have been able to achieve recovery. As you progress through the 12 steps and achieve sobriety, you will find that your story can also inspire many more toward recovery.
It is not for nothing that a 2020 Cochrane review found that AA and other 12-step facilitation programs led to higher abstinence rates than cognitive behavioral therapy. The idea is simple – keep showing up and take one step at a time. In fellowship, there is power.
Are You Ready to Take Your First Step?
If you think Alcoholics Anonymous can help you achieve your recovery goals, then contact Sober Living West today. We connect you with a number of AA meetings in Los Angeles based on your recovery needs. Please remember, your first AA meeting is not about perfect knowing – it is about showing up. So, contact us today at (310) 218-5158, and we can help you in this journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, all AA meetings are free. However, voluntary contributions are welcome.
You really only need to show up. You can also bring a notebook or a water bottle if you like.
Yes, open AA meetings welcome anyone curious about recovery.
No, you can introduce yourself only if you feel comfortable. Or, you can simply sit back and listen.
Yes! AA meetings follow strict anonymity and confidentiality principles.