How to Find an Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting
Alcoholics Anonymous was established by a man named Bill W. in the 1930s. Based on the "Twelve Steps," AA is geared toward people who wish to quit drinking. Since the meetings are private and anonymity is believed as an important foundation of the program, people may find it difficult to find a meeting. These steps can help those who wish to quit drinking find a meeting, or the information can be used for those who wish to help a friend or family member join the program.
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Instructions
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If you trying to find a meeting for yourself, you should first congratulate yourself. Alcoholism is a serious disease and admitting you need help is the first step of Alcoholics Anonymous. Meetings are held in every state of the United States, in every city and in nearly every town (as well as in many foreign countries). There is no shortage of places to go once you've determined that AA is a program you need.
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Go online. There are several websites that keep updated lists of where meetings are held (two are listed below). There are two different types of meetings. Open meetings can be attended by anyone who would like to learn about the AA program. Closed meetings are reserved for alcoholics who wish to work the program. Several websites are listed below that give meeting information, which can be searched by location.
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Contact "central offices" or "intergroups," which are places that keep track of where and when meetings are held. A list of central offices or intergroups can be found at www.aa.org.
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Contact your local hospital or substance abuse treatment center. The numbers to these facilities can be found in your phone book or online.
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Ask a trusted friend, family member or clergy member. Although AA meetings are not affiliated with any religion, they are often held in places of worship. Have no shame when you ask people; chances are, they have may have noticed your drinking problem and will mostly likely be glad you are seeking help. You may be surprised to learn that some of your friends or family members are "working the program" without your knowledge.
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Take a look at community and church bulletin boards if you don't feel comfortable asking someone. Meeting information is often posted there.
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Try another meeting location if you feel you don't mesh well with the people of the AA meeting you attended. You should not let personality differences get in the way of seeking treatment, and you may find another group dynamic that suits you better. Some meetings are held more formally than others, and you may find you respond more favorably to one over another.
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Once you commit to Alcoholics Anonymous, the group will set you up with a sponsor. The sponsor will be your guide to AA, and he or she will be able to help you find additional meetings where and when you need them. In some cases, sponsors will even help arrange transportation for you.
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