Those who suffer from alcoholism may find it difficult to locate support, and someone who has issues with alcohol should never have to deal with the problem alone. Thankfully, there is Alcoholics Anonymous. Here is how you can find AA meetings near you.
AA.Org
This website helps you find meetings in your area. No matter what state you live in, AA.org can help you. To find a meeting, simply click on the appropriate state. Once you click the state, all organizations will be listed by city. There may also be a state AA organization website where you simply need to follow the instructions on the website to find local meetings.
AA-Intergroup.Org
If you cannot make meetings at a physical location, AA offers online meetings as well. This website is also available in 14 different languages. The site offers "closed" and "open" meetings. Closed meetings are for AA members and those who have a problem with alcohol. Open meetings are for anyone who may be interested in AA, including those who do not have a drinking problem.
The website also offers specialized rooms in different categories, including rooms for men, women, LGBT, deaf or hard of hearing, military, and more. The meetings are held in various ways to allow anyone to work it into his or her schedule. AA-Intergroup has email meetings, chat rooms, audio and video meetings, discussion forums, and meetings over the telephone.
Other Ways
If you don't feel comfortable finding AA support through either of these outlets, there are other options. Some state organizations can assist you in finding an AA group in your area. Simply contact the Department of Health and Human Services to find meetings near you. This government agency will help you find the right one.
Finally, many religious organizations hold meetings for those who have issues with alcohol. You can call religious institutions near you to find where local meetings are held. Generally, meetings will be advertised around town. Rehabilitation centers may also know of the local venues for meetings. Simply call a center to find out where meetings are held.
Some Tips
- Remember that Alcoholics Anonymous is there for those who want help. It is an international fellowship of individuals who help each other with alcoholism. You should think twice before going to a meeting that is not sponsored by AA. It's easy to find an AA group in your area, and this group focuses on the best method possible of fighting alcoholism. Also, remember that no support group should ever require you to pay money to their organization.
- While online, never give out any personal information. If you need to find a meeting in your area, visit the AA.org website or contact your county's Department of Health. Giving out your personal information puts you at risk.
Attending Meetings
- Before a meeting, you should review the rules and guidelines of AA. This information will give you a good indication of what to expect when you walk through the doors or enter a chat room. The guidelines can be found at this location: http://www.aa.org/pages/en_US/aa-guidelines. This site includes rules such as keeping things confidential and making "I" statements rather than "we" or "you" statements.
- You should also become familiar with your local AA meeting structure. Each may have a different schedule. Generally, meetings start with a welcome from the chairperson followed by a reading from the "AA Preamble." From there, the chairperson will read from an AA handbook, go over the 12 steps, and review the group guidelines. Sometimes he or she may suggest a topic to speak about, or the group may begin discussing any issues they may be experiencing.
- Above all, arrive on time. Meetings will generally last one hour. Always turn off your cell phone during meetings to avoid disruption. Listen and share only when you feel comfortable. AA meetings are about your recovery. It isn't unusual for a newcomer to simply listen to other peoples' stories. You shouldn't feel pressured to share your own.
