Alcoholics Anonymous Traverse City, MI (2023)

Alcoholics Anonymous Traverse City, MI (1)

Lets agree that finding the right AA meeting inTraverse City, MI, can be a daunting task.

Well here in this post we would like to help give you some key factors to consider when deciding on the right meeting for you.

We Will Cover:

  • Types Of Meetings
  • What to Expect(Video)
  • The 12 Steps

Each day thousands of people are diagnosed with alcohol-related problems. Thousands more die from these ailments. Well, they don't have to. At Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in Traverse City, MI, a lot of alcohol addicts find all the help they need to get rid of their addiction through support and self-empowerment from a group of people who were once; or still are but are making it through, alcohol addiction. Are you an addict or are suffering from an alcohol-related ailment? Fortunately for you, this post covers ways you can get help from the AA meetings and what to expect in an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting.

What is Alcoholism?

Alcoholism is a compulsive and uncontrollable desire to consume alcoholic beverages which usually leads to the destruction of the user's health, relationships, and socialism status. Medically it's considered a disease or as specified in the medical field, an addictive illness.

The AA meetings try to help its members to overcome the urges of the addictive drink and create for them a satisfying way of leading their lives without alcohol.

(Video) Eric C. from We Agnostics in Traverse City, Michigan

Are you an alcoholic?

This might be the question you have been asking yourself for quite some time now. The answer is a conscience one that only you can give. If you are a casual drinker who drinks more than you should and always crave to drink, or are desperately trying to control your drinking habits but can't, then you may be an alcoholic. Scores of alcohol users deny the fact that they may need help to overcome their addiction and end up deeper in the caustic belly of alcoholism.

At AA, the choice to stop the regular drinking is always yours, and it's not up to anyone else to decide for you. Once you've made up your mind and are ready to take a different road that's alcohol-free, the doors at AA are always open for you.

Why Alcohol Anonymous Meetings in Traverse City, MI.

Alcohol Anonymous is a winning fellowship of people, both men and women, who've lost the battle against alcohol which has led them to all kinds of trouble, but now are attempting: some with success, to create a better way of living their lives without using alcohol. AA meetings boast of having made good in assisting many alcoholics. There is a great tool here that helps you search for local AA meetings.

Types of AA Meetings.

There are mainly two types of AA meetings: open meetings and closed meetings.

Open meetings.

As their name suggests, these meetings are open to alcoholics and anybody else who would like to attend them. Family, friends, observers and even students from various institutions can are allowed to be in them.

Closed meetings.

These are specially meant for those who are alcoholics or those who are suspicious of their drinking habits. The closed meetings are always the best choice for newcomers especially those not sure whether they are addicts. Now that you understand the different types of AA meetings lets look at some of the activities that take place in the various gatherings.

(Video) A.A. Speaker Tony B. (Pittsburgh) 2011

What to Expect in an Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting in Traverse City, MI.

Let's admit it. No one walks into an AA meeting feeling happy, jubilant and victorious. The feeling of loss and defeat to one's drinking doesn't really warm the soul. But, accepting to take the first step to attending an AA meeting is the gateway to getting that victory. The first session is always not easy for a newcomer but not to fuss. This post will prepare you on some of the things that take place or what you ought to expect in your first AA meeting.

Here is a great example of the types of supportive stories you will hear when attending an AA meeting.

The 12 Steps and 12 Traditional Reading.

The AA meetings usually start with the reading of twelve steps to recovery commonly called the 12 steps 12 traditions. These help the members feel like part of the group and to see that there is a higher power in control.

Introduction

The leader of the meeting makes general announcements and brief comments. Then he/she introduces the topic of the day and gives a brief statement and then recognises those willing to share through the raising of hands.

Sharing.

Those who are recognised and allowed to share start by first introducing themselves. They then participate usually by referring to the topic that has been mentioned. Following the issue that has been given by the leader is not mandatory. The speakers are still free to change the subject, especially if they are having a hard time or are seriously thinking about drinking.

On other occasions, the discussion's allowed to go around the room giving all those who desire an opportunity to speak.

(Video) Sara Shares Her INCREDIBLE Story of Alcoholism | Behind the Addiction

Book Reading.

Some meetings involve or devote themselves to studying individual alcohol addiction books. These sessions typically include reading some portion or passage from the book which is usually done by the meeting leader or designated members. The discussion leader then invites the members to comment in turns on the reading and finally discuss on a general topic.

Here is a great list of recommended reading

Speaker story.

Sometimes an entire meeting can be devoted to a speaker who's chosen in advance. He/she then tell their drinking and recovery story to the group. The speakers are usually selected from those with an extended period of sobriety generally a year or more.

Payments.

You cannot be asked for any charges to become a member of AA, but during meetings, some collections are made to cover various expenses such as rent, and coffee. Donations are not fixed, members can contribute as much as they wish or want.

Religion.

AA meetings are not religious and do not adhere to any religion. The meetings are spiritual in a way but do not ask anyone to follow any form of religious group. That is left for the individuals to decide.

(Video) Maria Harper Alcohol Lies

Humor.

The members, once in a while, break the ice in the room with humour as they share openly. The humour relieves any tension especially with the newcomers in the meeting.

Shared intimacy.

As much as there's hysterical laughter in the AA meeting, sometimes there are moments of sadness and crying. As members narrate and relate to each other's story of struggles with alcohol cravings, a bond is created, and people are relieved of the pressures of addiction.

Keeping of Time.

The meetings start on time and wrap up in time. Members usually make sure to arrive and socialise before the meeting start. There is also time for small talk at the end of the meeting in small group conversations. As a newcomer, this might be an anxious time for you as you don't know anyone. On the contrary it's quite the opposite. In AA meetings, this is the moment members show support to newcomers by approaching and introducing themselves to them. Phone numbers are also exchanged at this time. Don't be surprised if the members invade your personal space by trying to hug you. This is just a way of letting you know that you are not alone and have people to talk to no matter what you're experiencing.

Conclusion.

Alcohol recovery is not easy, and at AA, we understand what it's like to be an addict. Many habitual drinkers join us because they know it's possible to recover from regular drinking. Recovery is possible because we have done it and have a believe that you too can do it!

(Video) AA and NA the Non-Religious way. A few Questions.

FAQs

What is the success rate of the AA program? ›

In the Big Book, AA states its approximate success rate is 50%, plus 25%. This means that 50% of members stay sober, 25% of members relapse but come back, and 25% fail to use AA effectively and do not remain sober.

Does AA have a low success rate? ›

Although AA has been criticized by some sources for having a low success rate, the rate likely isn't 5% like some say it is. Addiction specialists cite success rates slightly higher, between 8% and 12%. A New York Times article stated that AA claims that up to 75% of its members stay abstinent.

How many times a week should I go to AA? ›

How Often Should I Go to AA Meetings? There is no set number of meetings you should attend. Some people go every day, while other people only go when they feel like they need to. It all depends on you and what you think you need.

What are the 5 suggestions of AA? ›

Here are a few helpful tips on how to get you started on your journey to recovery:
  • Be Punctual. This is a very basic indication of how successful you will be with your goal to stop your substance abuse. ...
  • Keep an Open Mind. ...
  • Make Friends. ...
  • Don't Hesitate to Speak Up and Share. ...
  • Don't Pity Yourself.
14 Sept 2020

Which AA step is the hardest? ›

Those who subscribe to the 12 steps of AA recognize that for most addicts, step one is usually the hardest. Admitting you are powerless over alcohol requires a tremendous amount of courage, humility and even fear. It can bring on a flood of powerful emotions including shame, anger and grief.

What are the odds of staying sober? ›

70% of individuals struggling with alcoholism will relapse at some point, however, relapse rates decline the longer someone stays sober. The percentage of alcoholics who recover and stay sober is about 35.9 percent, or about one-third, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.

Why does AA work so well? ›

AA works because it's based on social interaction, Humphreys said, noting that members give one another emotional support as well as practical tips to refrain from drinking. “If you want to change your behavior, find some other people who are trying to make the same change,” he said.

What does fine mean in AA? ›

FINE = Freaked out, Insecure, Neurotic and Emotional… FINE = Feeling Insecure Neurotic & Emotional… FINE = Frustrated, Insecure, Neuroticj & Emotional…

What is the success rate of the 12 steps? ›

13 percent of AA members stay sober between 5 and 10 years. 14 percent of AA members stay sober between 10 and 20 years. 22 percent of AA members stay sober 20 or more years. The average length of AA member sobriety is nearly 10 years.

How long do people usually stay in AA? ›

Research shows that almost 80% of people who regularly attend Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings are still sober after five years. Conversely, 43% of those who showed low meeting attendance rates remained clean and sober after five years.

How long are you a newcomer in AA? ›

Most sponsors encourage the AA newcomer to attend 90 meetings in 90 days. That may seem like a lot and it may seem like a long time to commit to going to meetings. However, most 12-step programs, including those for people addicted to drugs, encourage new members to commit to those 90 meetings in 90 days.

Do you have to be sober to be in AA? ›

As noted in the Twelve Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous, the only requirement to attend AA meetings is “a desire to stop drinking.”2 Strictly speaking, you can attend AA meetings if you are still using alcohol. AA understands that individuals may not be fully sober when they join or may experience relapses.

What does rule 62 mean? ›

The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous discusses many steps that are involved in the recovery process. Rule 62 in recovery refers to the rule of “don't take yourself too damn seriously.” Someone in recovery doesn't always realize that they can relish their life again without the use of alcohol.

How do you survive AA? ›

5 Survival Tips for Your First Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting
  1. Remember There's a First Time for Everyone. Be an active listener during your first meeting. ...
  2. Introduce Yourself. ...
  3. Be an Active Listener. ...
  4. Share When You're Ready. ...
  5. Find the Best AA Group for You.
8 Jun 2021

What is a good topic for NA? ›

Here are some of the most common NA meetings topics to think about.
...
10 Common Narcotics Anonymous Meeting Topics
  • The 12-Steps. ...
  • Higher Power. ...
  • Facing Fears. ...
  • Exploring Shortcomings. ...
  • Forgiveness. ...
  • Making Amends. ...
  • Self-Awareness. ...
  • Goals.
16 Dec 2021

What is the success rate of Celebrate Recovery? ›

About 85% of the people who go through Celebrate Recovery stay with the church, according to Saddleback Church. The program is offered in more than 37,000 churches across the globe. Celebrate Recovery has a Trademark Statement in which they describe the desires of the group.

Is AA a good program? ›

AA shines. Most of the studies that measured abstinence found AA was significantly better than other interventions or no intervention. In one study, it was found to be 60% more effective. None of the studies found AA to be less effective.

Why does AA work so well? ›

Research has found that attending AA and engaging in the program can help people achieve sobriety, develop confidence in their recovery, and improve their relationships. AA works because it provides an opportunity to build a new sober support network, help others, and find purpose.

How many people go to AA in the UK? ›

There are an estimated 4,661 UK AA meetings and 723 English Speaking groups in Continental Europe. AA membership is estimated at between 23,000 and 25,490 in the UK.

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