These meetings aim to create a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space for members to discuss their struggles and progress. 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. 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. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is an international, non-profit fellowship of men and women dedicated to helping each other recover from alcoholism. It is one of the oldest and most successful organizations of its kind, with over two million members worldwide.
The Traditional Definitions Of Addiction & Alcoholism
Although the organization grew slowly in those early days, it also grew steadily. 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.
What Are Some Alternative Treatments to Alcoholics Anonymous?
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. In AA, members identify as “alcoholics,” emphasizing their struggle with alcohol and fostering a shared focus on alcohol-specific challenges. In contrast, NA members use the term “addicts,” reflecting a broader, what is Oxford House inclusive approach that addresses addiction to any substance or behavior. In areas where daily meetings are available, certain members choose to attend nearly every day, while others have longer gaps.
The 12 Steps of AA (Alcoholics Anonymous)
Navigating conversations around addiction can be difficult—but with the right approach and knowledge of AA, you can have an incredibly productive dialogue about help and support. The third promise of AA involves making amends with those you have wronged in the past due to your alcohol use. This could be an apology to a former partner, an acknowledgment of negligence as a parent, or an apology to family or friends who have dealt with the consequences related to drinking. Anyone with a desire to stop drinking is welcome, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, income or profession. Our first duty, as a society, is to insure our own survival.
How did you get sober?
The key principles of AA are honesty, open-mindedness, and willingness. AA is an informal organization that consists of local, independent groups where members come together to share their stories, discuss issues related to alcohol, and provide each other with support. alcoholics anonymous definition AA meetings don’t involve judgment or criticism; instead, members discuss their struggles without fear of repercussion. Members are also encouraged to mentor newcomers and serve as role models for those still struggling with addiction. Alcoholics Anonymous, also known as the “Big Book,” presents the A.A. First published in 1939, its purpose was to show other alcoholics how the first 100 people of A.A.
- These traditions help AA remain non-professional, self-sustaining, and inclusive, ensuring it continues serving individuals seeking sobriety without external influence.
- While AA is a widely recognized recovery method for alcohol addiction, it does not work for everyone, particularly those who require medical intervention, structured therapy, or a secular approach.
- You also have to be willing to make amends, which shows that you truly care for the people on your list.
- International Convention in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, July 3-6.
- AA is characterized as a self-help group whose members meet regularly in order to share their personal experiences with alcohol and offer each other kindness, love, and care in a non-judgmental setting.
- If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol dependency or addiction, contact your local Alcoholics Anonymous office today.
- The program helps individuals achieve and maintain sobriety through self-reflection, behavioral accountability, and social reinforcement.
Sobriety – freedom from alcohol – through the teaching and practice of the Twelve Steps is the sole purpose of an A.A. Groups have repeatedly tried other activities, and they have always failed. It has also been learned that there is no possible way to make nonalcoholics into A.A.
Big Book ASL – Chapter 11 – A Vision For You
With AA, not everyone has the ability to understand what it means to keep all of the steps in mind after completing them. The 12 spiritual principles package these steps into digestible virtues and provide a road map to lifelong health and sobriety. Founded in 1935 by Bill Wilson and Robert Smith, Alcoholics Anonymous has grown to include worldwide chapters, each devoted to helping people end their dependence on alcohol.
Once they understand that your intent is not to lecture them but to provide support, they may be more open to discussing AA further. AA meetings also provide an invaluable way to connect with like-minded individuals. Most meetings start with a brief introduction by the leader, followed by introductions by each participant in the room. Members then share their stories in a safe and supportive environment before continuing with a discussion around the twelve steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. Some meetings may have additional activities, such as readings or meditations, while others will end with the Serenity Prayer or another closing blessing.
Step calls are not like traditional treatment programs – they are a voluntary association of individuals who want to help one another recover from addiction. AA is renowned for its 12-step programs, a structured roadmap for personal recovery and spiritual growth from alcoholism. The program focuses on acknowledging one’s struggles with alcohol addiction, seeking help, making amends, and supporting others while emphasizing honesty, self-reflection, accountability, and mutual support.