12-step meetings are where alcoholics or drug addicts gather around and either listen or share their stories. Some may feel intimidated to go as they are worried about getting judged or feel their problem is not serious enough to attend a meeting. It is important to know what you are getting into when you join a 12-step meeting. This is to ensure that you do not quit the meetings before you start.
Where Does A 12-Step Program Take Place?
12-step meetings normally take place at a church or a community center. Some are there making coffee and talking or they keep to themselves. Ten minutes later, about fifty people sit in a circle with the meeting chairperson sitting in the middle. The chairperson reads the AA Preamble and leads the Serenity Prayer. Different members read different passages like “How It Works,” “Twelve Traditions,” and “The Promises.” Newcomers are introduced and there are discussions about the steps such as if any have experience, strength or hope with any of them. Each person shares their story voluntarily and gets thanked after. There is also the opportunity to share AA-related announcements and the option to partake in the Lord’s Prayer.
Why Go to a 12-Step Meeting?
These meetings are a time to socialize and ask any questions. Meetings are all run differently. There are some who call on others who have not spoken so that everyone has a chance to speak and to get them to open up more. Some meetings focus on discussion with a random topic to talk about. 12-step meetings are not to be rigorous where you pay any dues, find a sponsor, give out personal information, or join anything. All you are required to do is be on time, not smoke, and not interrupt someone when they speak. Also, make sure your court vouchers are signed by the end of the meeting if you are required by the court.
Will I Get Anything From a Meeting?
You will receive a meeting schedule book with names and numbers to call just in case your feel the cravings to use. There are open meetings if you just want to observe and closed ones if you are looking to recover. You are encouraged to listen the first time and are never required to talk as you need to share your story when you are ready. 12-step meetings can get you to finally admit to yourself that you have a problem that you would like to fix.
Come to Bayview Recovery?
At Bayview Recovery, we treat a variety of addictions. You don’t have to struggle with your alcohol abuse anymore. We will get you treatment and help you start the recovery process. We treat several addictions, including:
Located in Tacoma, Washington, Bayview Center’s mission is to offer clinically-driven programs and services to treat a number of substance abuse disorders along with anxiety and depression. By using cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical-behavioral therapy, trauma therapy, yoga therapy, and more, we ensure a successful recovery. For more information, please call us at 855.478.3650 as we are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Dr. Dave Cundiff, MD, MPH (Medical Reviewer)
