Ive never been to an AA meeting and want to go to one in person but am nervous and dont know what to expect?? Please send tips/advice/encourgement
3 Likes
I’ve been to several - as a newbie I was scared and really emotional - was never expected to contribute to conversation- tell them “this is my first meeting” they’ll run a first step meeting for you. I’m guessing their stories will feel very familiar..
4 Likes
You’ll want an “open” meeting to start. Often at the beginning the chairperson will ask if there is anyone new or coming back. This is the perfect time to tell them it’s your first. Expect many welcomes and hopefully you will feel welcome 
. You will be the most important person in the room. Listening at first is the best. Identify don’t compare and congratulations 
. I love to see the younger crowd get it earlier in life. Keep coming, no matter what​:smiley:
3 Likes
thank you for this!
thank you for this information!! it helps so much!
1 Like
My advice: Don’t be nervous.
There’s nothing to be nervous about. They aren’t scary at all and you might find some of the nicest people you will ever meet. Tell them that you are new to the program and you are likely to get the warmest welcome imaginable.
3 Likes
Was extremely nervous going in.. once I was able to let go, and be open, it was the most purely happy I felt in a decade. Still go to at least one meeting per day.. and it often is the highlight of my day!
2 Likes
I went to my first meeting solely to prove that it wasn’t for me. And guess what? I’ve never felt so immediately connected to a group of strangers. I found my people in the rooms of 12 step recovery. I would have gone sooner if I’d known the relief I would find there.
3 Likes
Absolutely nothing to fear - walk out if you’re no comfortable- but you’ll be fine.
And everyone there? Has been what you’re going through. And everyone there ? Is there to help you, other than the other newbies. Everyone there? Wants to help newly sober.
2 Likes
It works. It helped me in many ways.
Don't be shy and hesitant. I net many wonderful people.
1 Like
Suit up show up, ya just might hear something you like..
Never to young never to old
Never too soon never to late
No better time then now
3 Likes
Meetings are great.meet lots of people. Aa 
2 Likes
I remember my first meeting. NA meeting at a veterans hall in Concord. It was in the basement. I can say that the love I received that night was awesome!
As a newcomer, you are the most important person in that meeting. I’d say that over half of them at that meeting are there for you, the newcomer. My advice is to expect nothing. Leave your anxiety at home, depression in the car and walk through that door. Find a seat up front. Raise your hand when they ask if your new. Say you first name only. You don’t even have to say your an alcoholic unless you believe you are one. There is nothing to fear about a meeting. It’s one hour. It’s one hour that you’ll be sober. It’s one hour that you could help another person stay sober.
I only go to meetings now for the newcomer. It’s not a fellowship if we stay home…… worst case is you get up and leave. If that happens try a different meeting. You’ll find a meeting that will suit your needs.
I’ll pray for your first meeting to be safe and joyous.
2 Likes