This Is A A. An introduction to the A.A. recovery program Alcoholics Anonymous

It outlines how to find support from God and others so that members can begin rebuilding their lives. The 12 Steps also provide structure on how to rebuild relationships with those affected by alcoholism, such as family and friends. First and foremost, it’s important to keep in mind that conversations surrounding addiction can be difficult and delicate. You want to make sure you come from a non-judgmental place of understanding and compassion when you approach the topic.

The “Ego Defenses” That Prevent Humility

Some members prefer to describe themselves as recovering alcoholics to emphasise that getting well is an ongoing process which is never fully complete. According to a report by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) titled “The Effectiveness of Treatment” (1990), Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and similar 12-step programs provide structured social support. However, retention rates vary, with approximately 40% of members disengaging within the first six months due to personal, environmental, or program-related factors. The history of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) began in 1935 in Akron, Ohio, when Bill Wilson, a stockbroker, and Dr. Bob Smith, a physician, struggled with alcohol addiction.

Think you have a drinking problem?

The 12 principles of Alcoholics Anonymous are core values that guide individuals through the recovery process, promoting personal growth, ethical behavior, and long-term sobriety. These principles align with the 12-step program and emphasize accountability, humility, and service. They serve as a moral foundation, helping members develop a new way of thinking and behaving to maintain abstinence from alcohol. Alcoholics Anonymous has been a major source of help and hope for millions of people around the world who are struggling with alcohol addiction. Through shared experience, understanding, and acceptance, AA creates a place of refuge where individuals can find lasting recovery from alcoholism. When bringing up AA, it’s important not to pressure the person into taking any specific action or attending a certain meeting.

• Today, some critics of the program find that aspect of AA problematic, arguing that self-empowerment is an effective way to manage addiction and achieve lasting recovery.
• Alcoholics Anonymous has been a major source of help and hope for millions of people around the world who are struggling with alcohol addiction.
• It outlines how to find support from God and others so that members can begin rebuilding their lives.
• The AA Meetings Directory simplifies this process through a user-friendly platform that allows individuals to find AA meetings near them.
• But when I was in meetings and I heard stories about drinking consequences, I would tell myself that’s not me YET.

Alcohol Poisoning Symptoms vs. Being Drunk: Is There a Difference?

International Convention marks the anniversary of Bill W.’s first meeting with Dr. Bob and the birth of Alcoholics Anonymous in 1935. Members and their families and friends from around the globe attend the event. At the International Convention people attend meetings, workshops, dances and events. A highlight is the traditional flag ceremony to celebrate sobriety worldwide. The FHE Health team is committed to providing accurate information that adheres to the highest standards of writing. If one of our articles is marked with a ‘reviewed for accuracy and expertise’ badge, it indicates that one or more members of our team of doctors and clinicians have reviewed the article further to ensure accuracy.

The formation of AA was inspired by The Oxford Group, a Christian fellowship that promoted moral and spiritual values for personal transformation. Wilson and Smith adapted some of its principles but created a secular and inclusive recovery framework centered on peer support and personal accountability rather than religious doctrine. Members also accept that finding support through fellowship with others struggling with addiction is essential for long-term recovery. AA provides a safe space for drug addiction members to share their struggles, experiences, and successes with one another in order to acquire strength, understanding, and companionship.

Alcoholics Anonymous

In addition to providing support and recovery resources for its members, Alcoholics Anonymous also works hard to spread the message about the risks of drinking. AA members travel all over the world, delivering presentations in schools and prison facilities in order to get the word out that addiction can be overcome. AA also offers online support communities so that current or former members can access help 24/7. One of the most important aspects of AA is working through the 12 steps.

Word Clouds, popular on the internet today, work well to express an idea that is bigger than just one word. Kennedy has been outspoken about his own experience using heroin and seeking help through Alcoholics Anonymous. Much of “The Dry Season” takes inspiration from programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous, where the desire for a substance is in reality a desire to be closer to God. All the great faiths are represented in our Fellowship and many religious leaders have encouraged our growth. Belief in, or adherence to, a formal creed is not a condition of membership.

• Online meetings are available for Alcoholics Anonymous and have expanded significantly in recent years.
• These gender-specific meetings create a comfortable environment for individuals to share their experiences and challenges related to recovery.
• What we mean is that we had a distinct physical desire to consume alcohol beyond our capacity to control it, in defiance of all rules of common sense.

According to AA, alcoholics cannot sustain periods of abstinence without help from others or capable outside aa alcoholic definition interventions. AA is a community of individuals who give hope and strength to each other. It’s a safe place where members can open up about their addiction without shame or judgment. There are no expectations for people attending AA meetings, just a desire for sobriety and an understanding of the power of relying on others when it becomes difficult to face addiction alone. These promises form a solid foundation for each member as they work toward achieving and maintaining long-term sobriety through Alcoholics Anonymous’ 12 Steps program.