Question 1

Do I have to say I’m an alcoholic? Do I have to talk?

Accepted Answer

No. You don’t have to say anything. Some people share on their first day, many just listen.

Question 2

Do I have to sign anything or register?

Accepted Answer

No. AA doesn’t take names or attendance. You just show up.

Question 3

Is it religious? Do I have to be a Christian or believe in God?

Accepted Answer

AA is a spiritual program, but groups are not affiliated with any religion. How people interpret “higher power” varies a lot - some people's higher power is the Christian God, some see their higher power as the Universe, others use AA itself as their higher power.

Question 4

Can I go if I’m not sober yet?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The only requirement is a desire to stop drinking. Plenty of people show up while still drinking and sort it out over time.

Question 5

What happens at a meeting?

Accepted Answer

Every AA meeting runs a little differently. Ours generally looks like this:
The chairperson opens with the Serenity Prayer and a short reading from the Big Book. After that, we recognize anyone marking a month or year of sobriety, and anyone new to the meeting.

Next comes the main portion of the meeting. Usually we read from AA literature, though sometimes there’s a speaker or a short Q&A. After that, we open the floor for discussion. Members raise their hand and have up to three minutes to share their experience, strength, and hope related to the topic.

Discussion runs until about 9:00 PM EST. We then close with a short reading and a closing prayer.

After the meeting, many of us stick around in the “parking lot” to chat and connect.

You are never required to share if you don't want to!

For more information on our meeting types and schedule, click on About/Meeting Schedule in the top menu.

Question 6

I'm nervous about anonymity.

Accepted Answer

Anonymity is an important part of AA. Members usually use first names only, and what’s said in the meeting is treated as confidential.

Because this meeting is on Zoom, none of the following are required:
• Turning on your camera (though we do enjoy seeing faces, it’s optional)
 • Using your real name
 • Identifying yourself in any way that feels uncomfortable to you

You’re welcome to participate at a level that feels safe for you.