10 Things you Won’t Learn in an Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting—and Why You Should Attend Anyway

AA has worked for an extremely large number of people; in fact, millions of individuals have been helped by this program. Therefore, trying it out could possibly benefit you in a number of ways, but it is still important to note what the program won’t actually teach you. If you haven’t attended professional treatment, it is necessary for a safe recovery to do so, and you can find reliable treatment centers by calling 800-948-8417 Info iconCalls are forwarded to paid advertisers .

What Won’t I Learn in an AA Meeting?

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, AA helps to promote abstinence as well as other healthy lifestyle goals.

In their meetings, many individuals also learn how to maintain abstinence, follow the 12 steps, and benefit from the help of social support. However, below are 10 things you won’t learn in a meeting, and to do so, you will often have to ask others, seek counseling or professional treatment, or figure them out for yourself.

Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting

AA won’t teach you how to choose your higher power.

In an AA meeting, you won’t learn…

  1. How to tweak the 12 steps to benefit your needs.
  2. Which people in your life will be supportive of and helpful to your recovery.
  3. Other recovery methods available in different support groups or therapy programs.
  4. How to recognize and avoid your triggers.
  5. What housing, vocational, or educational options might be available to you.
  6. Which rehab centers will be most beneficial to your needs.
  7. How to choose your specific Higher Power or Helping Power.
  8. How AA compares to other support groups
  9. How you and your family members can better relate to one another and cope with your addiction.
  10. How to completely protect yourself from relapse.

The final point must be stated because no one treatment or recovery option will be able to protect you completely from the threat of relapse. According to the NIDA, there is always a possibility that relapse may occur, which is why you should

  • Seek as many treatment and recovery options as are helpful to you
  • Ask questions and stay involved in your own recovery
  • Always be aware of your situation and any signs that you might be about to relapse

Why Should I Still Attend an AA Meeting?

You should still attend AA at least once to find out if the program will be beneficial to you. Many individuals have found considerable success with AA as a part of their recovery plan, and the program does provide a number of important benefits, including helping members get to know one another and form strong bonds of support and friendship.

Attending an AA meeting also doesn’t have to take place after your professional treatment program is over. Many rehab centers, inpatient as well as outpatient, host meetings for patients and utilize the 12 steps in their therapy programs.

You can attend an AA meeting as a part of your rehab program, and start your recovery off as safely as possible. Call 800-948-8417 Info iconCalls are forwarded to paid advertisers today to learn more about your options.

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