Alcoholics Anonymous or AA for short is an internationally-recognized fellowship that has the stated goal of helping its members overcome addiction to alcohol. AA is self-help apolitical and non-professional. Its only membership requirement is the desire to quit drinking alcohol. Members are free to go wherever they want with their recovery but they must still attend meetings at least once every twelve months in order to maintain the sponsor’s support. For most people getting through a 12-month period of AA meeting is a great deal of hard work but it will be worth it when all is said and done. For many people going through one treatment and staying sober is better than continuing to drink.
As a group therapy a major focus is to help a person to identify their drinking problem and to try to do anything possible to stop drinking even if that means giving up everything that makes them feel good. When alcohol is being used a variety of things can happen. Some people experience withdrawal symptoms including insomnia and irritability. There may also be feelings of depression and guilt. The group will try to teach its members about healthy ways to deal with their problems including communication patience determination and acceptance.
AA offers many opportunities for people to make contact with each other and get information about each other. If you are a member of Alcoholics Anonymous you may want to look around and find other people who could benefit from your services. When you get to AA you are expected to be honest with them. They are there to help you through whatever you are struggling with. They may help you to go to counseling or talk to someone who can help you get your mind off alcohol. They may even suggest a new job if you have no other options.
