What is A.A.?

What is Alcoholics Anonymous?

Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) is a fellowship of people who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other to solve their common problem and help others recover from alcohol addiction. Founded in 1935, A.A. has grown to become the world's largest and most successful program for alcohol recovery.

The only requirement for A.A. membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees, no pledges to sign, no one to answer to except yourself. A.A. is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organization, or institution; does not wish to engage in any controversy; and neither endorses nor opposes any causes.

Today, A.A. has approximately 2 million members worldwide in over 180 countries, with more than 125,000 groups meeting regularly. The program is based on spiritual principles and peer support, offering hope and practical guidance for anyone struggling with alcohol use or alcohol addiction.

The History of A.A.

A.A. began in Akron, Ohio in June 1935, when Bill Wilson, a New York stockbroker, met Dr. Bob Smith, an Akron surgeon. Both men had been struggling with alcohol problems for years. Wilson had achieved sobriety through a spiritual experience and realized that helping another person with alcohol troubles was key to maintaining his own sobriety.

Their meeting marked the beginning of A.A. as we know it today. Dr. Bob had his last drink onJune 10, 1935, which is considered A.A.'s founding date. The two men began working with other people struggling with alcohol, and the fellowship gradually grew.

In 1939, the first edition of the book "Alcoholics Anonymous" (often called the "Big Book") was published, outlining the program's principles and sharing stories of recovery. This book became the foundation text for the A.A. program and has been translated into dozens of languages.

The Twelve Steps Program

The Twelve Steps are the core of the A.A. recovery program. These steps provide a framework for personal growth and spiritual development that has helped millions of people achieve and maintain sobriety. The steps are suggestions, not requirements, and members work through them at their own pace with the guidance of a sponsor.

How A.A. Works

A.A. works through peer support and spiritual principles. The program is based on the idea that people with lived experience of alcohol problems can best understand and help others facing similar challenges. Members share their experiences and support each other in maintaining sobriety.

Key Elements of A.A.

A.A. Meetings Explained

A.A. meetings are the heart of the program. They provide a safe, supportive environment where people in recovery can share their experiences and listen to others. Meetings follow a general format but can vary in style and focus.

Types of A.A. Meetings

Core Principles and Traditions

A.A. operates on several core principles that guide both individual recovery and group functioning. These principles ensure that A.A. remains focused on its primary purpose while maintaining unity and autonomy.

Key A.A. Principles

Getting Started with A.A.

If you're considering A.A., the most important step is simply showing up to a meeting. You don't need to make any commitments or decisions about your drinking. The only requirement is a desire to stop drinking, and that desire can develop over time.

Remember, A.A. is a program of suggestions, not requirements. You can take what works for you and leave the rest. Many people attend meetings for weeks or months before deciding whether A.A. is right for them.