
Group members have a unique perspective and offer valuable understanding and support to one another. Closed meetings are conducive to speaking openly about alcohol use without fear of judgment. Many AA members are more comfortable attending closed meetings as fellow group members share their commitment to the 12-step principles and to anonymity.
Closed meetings are for members or for any nonmember who believes he or she has a problem with alcohol. Someone with a drug problem that is not in crisis would be asked to respect that the meeting is for alcohol-related discussion. If a person with a drug-related problem expressed an immediate need for help, he or she would be invited to share with the group. An exception would be in the case of a crisis. The speaker will then lead a discussion, which may focus on an aspect of AA recovery or may be sparked by input from those present.Īlthough those with addictions other than alcohol can attend an open meeting, the focus and discussion are meant to be on alcohol-related problems. Open meetings usually feature a speaker who shares a personal story, including how their life has changed in recovery. Attendees may include recovering addicts, family members of those with an alcohol problem, or someone just researching the program. Anyone who wants to learn more about AA can attend an open meeting, including those with drug or other addictions. Each individual determines for themselves whether to disclose their AA affiliation and to whom.Īlthough AA was founded specifically to help those with an alcohol problem, there are situations in which someone with a drug addiction may attend either an open or closed AA meeting. AA is based on a 12-step program, which, as defined by AA, is “a group of principles, spiritual in their nature, which, if practiced as a way of life, can expel the obsession to drink and enable the sufferer to become happily and usefully whole.”ĪA emphasizes anonymity, stressing the importance of placing “principles before personalities.” Attendance at AA meetings is meant to be private, providing a safe environment for those who want to share their personal stories.
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Membership is free and open to anyone who feels they have a problem with alcohol and has the desire to live a sober life.
Alcoholics Anonymous was founded in 1935 for one purpose: to provide a support system for those who want to stop drinking alcohol.