How do I find an AA or NA meeting, and what happens at the first one?
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RH
RecoveryHome team Team
asked 2 days ago
Going to a first meeting can feel intimidating. How do you find one, and what should you expect?
RH
RecoveryHome team Team
answered 2 days ago · general information, not medical advice
Finding a meeting:
- AA (Alcoholics Anonymous): use the meeting finder at aa.org or the free Meeting Guide app.
- NA (Narcotics Anonymous): use the meeting search at na.org.
- Both list in-person and online meetings, many every day.
Open or closed? Open meetings welcome anyone, including family and friends. Closed meetings are for people who want to stop drinking or using.
At your first meeting:
- There's no fee. A basket may be passed for voluntary contributions, and you don't have to give.
- Meetings usually include readings and people sharing their experience.
- You don't have to speak. Saying "I'll just listen" or simply listening is fine.
- What's said there stays there. Anonymity is a core principle.
- Some people introduce themselves as new, and members often offer phone numbers or literature.
Try a few. Meetings have different sizes, formats, and personalities, so many people try several before finding ones that feel right.
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