About AA Meetings

If you’re new to AA, you likely have fears or reservations. Maybe you’ve seen AA meetings on TV or in films. What’s the reality?

There are no forms to fill in, no fees to pay. Just a warm welcome. In fact, you will probably feel for the first time, you are with people who really understand you.

Many meetings are held in churches or community centres. Some people will say hello, some will keep to themselves. You’ll see men and women of all ages and backgrounds in a friendly, social atmosphere.

You take a seat, and a person – perhaps the person leading the meeting on that day – will introduce AA to you and any other newcomers.

It is strictly anonymous, so members only use their first names. They pledge to treat anything you say as confidential, its just between you and the group.

You don’t have to stand up and say “I’m an alcoholic.” You do not have to speak. You can come along and just listen.

Many meetings offer an opportunity for you, as a Newcomer, to raise your hand and introduce yourself by your first name. If you don’t want to do this, you don’t have to. It’s up to you.

Members support each other through sharing how they have managed to stay sober that day or that week. There is no judgement, only knowing smiles.

There may be readings from the Twelve Steps. The chair will ask if anyone wants to share their experiences, strength, or hope relating to the step.

The chairperson will also announce any AA news relevant to the group. A ‘hat’ is passed for any contributions (to cover running costs of the meeting hall, literature, and incidental expenses).

Most meetings end with the Serenity Prayer. It’s important here to say that you do not have to be religious or believe in God to go to AA meetings. The purpose of ending the meeting with a prayer is to think of a higher power, such as nature, or simply the collective energy of people coming together to help each other.
After, the meeting, those who want to informally chat, can do so, usually over a tea or coffee.

You will be offered a meeting schedule, or shown how to find other meetings via the internet, so you know when and where other meetings are held.  You will also be offered the names and phone numbers of people you can call if you feel the need for a drink and need help.

No one will badger you to hold hands or pray, or demand you sit at the front, or stand up, or speak, or even stay to the end of the meeting.

The only ask is for members to show common respect to each other, and have a shared desire to stop drinking.

Open Meetings

Open meetings are open to non-alcoholics too, such as family and friends supporting a loved one.

Closed Meetings

These meetings are limited to alcoholics and those who think or know they have a problem with drinking.