5 Survival Tips for Your First Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting

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Your first Alcoholics Anonymous meeting can be intimidating and a little nerve-wracking, too.  You may experience feelings of shame, embarrassment, dread or despair. These emotions and feelings are completely normal. In time, many people discover that AA meetings can offer inspiration, motivation and a powerful sense of connection.  Getting through your first meeting is a meaningful milestone and an important step on your recovery journey, providing the strength and guidance you need to heal.

If you’re feeling nervous or apprehensive about attending your first AA meeting, call our helpline at 800-948-8417 Sponsored to speak to a counselor who can answer your questions and help you feel more at ease about attending AA. The following 5 tips can also help to make your first AA meeting less stressful.

1. Remember There’s a First Time for Everyone

Walking into your first AA meeting may leave you feeling like an outsider, but keep in mind that everyone in the room once felt the same way. In many meetings, members recognize a new face and make a real effort to offer warmth, support and understanding.

Remind yourself that everyone has had a first meeting, and with each one you attend, you will feel more comfortable, confident and more connected to the people around you.

2. Introduce Yourself

If you feel comfortable, introduce yourself when you first arrive at the meeting. If this feels too uncomfortable, the group leader or chairperson will ask if there is anyone new to the group, offering you a gentle opportunity to speak without the pressure to share more than you are ready for.

Remember that Alcoholics Anonymous is indeed anonymous, and you are not required to give your full name. You can simply say hello and share your first name, or say “Hello, my name is ___ and I am an alcoholic.”

3. Be an Active Listener

During your first AA meeting, focus on listening to each individual’s story. This can offer you a new perspective on your own problems with addiction. It is also helpful to maintain a positive outlook by focusing on the similarities between you and these individuals, rather than your differences.

Being an active listener is part of the recovery process when attending an AA meeting. Listening to other group members share their stories, experiences, struggles and successes can help inspire you to become healthier through sobriety.

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4. Share When You’re Ready

Nobody will pressure you or force you to share your story at your first AA meeting. In fact, it is not uncommon for newcomers to feel more comfortable quietly listening and familiarizing themselves with the structure of an AA meeting before speaking up.

If you do feel like sharing, use the word “I” instead of “we,” since AA is about your personal journey toward sobriety, and you alone are responsible for your actions. Over time, you’ll feel more comfortable and empowered to share your experiences as a way of overcoming your alcohol addiction.

5. Find the Best AA Group for You

Don’t be discouraged if you don’t immediately connect with other members or if you feel that a particular meeting isn’t the right fit. AA offers many different types of meetings to suit individuals’ preferences. For example, some meetings are designed for specific genders, while others are more tailored to certain age groups.

There’s nothing wrong with trying different AA groups. What is most important is that you find an AA group that makes you feel the most comfortable and keeps you motivated to overcome your addiction.

Do you need help finding an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting in your area? Call our helpline at 800-948-8417 Sponsored to speak with a counselor and receive advice and guidance on finding an AA group that meets your needs. Your sobriety and anonymity are our top priority, and we’re available 24/7 to discuss your treatment and recovery options.

By Cary Damerow

Cary brings over three decades of nursing expertise as an LPN and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts. She is also working towards a Master’s degree focused on public health policy. Her professional journey has been dedicated to addressing healthcare disparities for both adults and children.

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