Newly sober (2 weeks today, yay!) and I really would like to go to a meeting but I’m nervous. I’ve been to a few Al-Anon meetings when I was younger but my therapist went with me at the time. Any advice/what to expect?
14 Likes
Cool. I was terrified my fist meeting!! I was welcomed with open arms and most the folks loved me until I could love me. Go with an open mind, take home what you need for you and leave what isn’t for you. Don’t judge all meetings for the one that might not be for you. Sometimes it takes going to several different ones to find your vibe. Find the people you want your sobriety to be like and take their suggestions. Most of all have fun!! Good luck your worthy
3 Likes
I have always been super welcome at any meeting I’ve ever been to, and I’m always super nervous every time I go to a new group. But it’s always short lived.
3 Likes
Maybe if it's possible hit a women's meeting first?
3 Likes
Just sit all the way in the chair and listen. Don’t feel pressured to share, putting yourself in the position to hear something that could help you stay sober is the goal. No matter what anyone tells you, go at your own pace. We’ve lived our lives as a sprint up til now. No need to rush step work imo. Being around people who understand your pain is a great first step.
5 Likes
Idk where you’re located but second tradition is my favorite
Hey get in there promise behind those scary doors are some of the kindest and most caring people you will ever meet and you can simply listen
2 Likes
I had no idea what to expect. Everyone was nice and welcoming however it wasn’t the group for me. Took some time finding the right one but now it’s great. Don’t feel like you have to say anything if you don’t want. Sometimes just listening to what others are dealing with helped me more than anything I could have said. If anything it’s okay to tell someone it’s your first meeting. They’ll more than likely help you through and be someone to talk to afterwards.
1 Like
Congratulations. Well I live in a smaller town so it was me and 2 other people my first time at na but my first AA there was like 150 people when I went in NYC during covid. If ur really scared I'd say maybe do zoom a few times first but you got this either way and keep going to different meetings until you feel at home
1 Like
Expect a lot of hugs.. the welcoming will make u so comfortable that u will rush back to another
1 Like
You should feel as welcome as you do at your family reunion in your first AA meeting because we are all family in recovery! Make sure to soak up as much info from the old timers as you can! I’m proud of you!
1 Like
Hi! I second the comment about going to a women’s meeting. Not sure where you’re located, but if you’re in NYC, I can help recommend some meetings. My advice is to find a sponsor and a home group asap. That’ll help keep you sober. I’m happy to connect if you want to chat.
1 Like
Brace yourself. It's creepy. There is a bunch of god speak. Just breath deep and you will get through it.
1 Like
That's awesome! Go with a opened mind and ears. Don't worry about sharing! Ask questions after if you have any.
1 Like
That’s about 92% of all people.
1 Like
I'll echo what others said - it may take a few meetings to find a good fit for you but in my experience everyone has been very welcoming, especially when I was a newcomer. I too would recommend an all women's meeting - that's where I feel most comfortable. Congratulations on taking the initiative to work on your sobriety! Hope you find a path that works well for you.
1 Like
I was terrified - crying - when I told them it was my first meeting? They said “we’re doing a first meeting”. Request that. Unbelievably cathartic - you’ll understand you’re not alone.
2 Likes
And almost every story? Will likely sound like yours. My first first step meeting was gritty - people opening up - not holding back - and you don’t have to talk if you don’t want. Just “pass” and they’ll leave ya alone.
2 Likes
Don't be nervous. The blood rituals and chanting feel normal after your third visit
Just go!
2 Likes