About AA

What is Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)?

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a community of individuals who come together to support each other in overcoming alcoholism. Key aspects of AA include:

• Members share their experiences, strength, and hope to address common challenges and support recovery.
• The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking.
• AA operates without dues or fees, relying solely on self-support through contributions.
• It remains unaffiliated with any religion, politics, or organizations, avoiding controversy and endorsing no external causes.
• The primary purpose of AA is to maintain sobriety and help others achieve it.

What AA Does

Non-alcoholic guests are invited to attend “Open” AA meetings, while “Closed” meetings are reserved for individuals who are alcoholics or believe they may have a drinking problem.

During meetings, AA members share their experiences of recovery with those seeking help and provide person-to-person support, including “Sponsorship,” for newcomers to AA.

The AA program, outlined in the Twelve Steps of Recovery, offers individuals struggling with alcohol a path to build a fulfilling, alcohol-free life.

What AA Does Not Do

• AA does not provide medical or psychiatric diagnoses, prognoses, or advice.
• It does not offer services such as detoxification, nursing care, hospitalization, medications, housing, employment, financial aid, or welfare support.
• The organization does not accept money for its services or contributions from external sources.
• AA does not issue letters of reference for parole boards, lawyers, court officials, social agencies, employers, or similar entities.
• It refrains from engaging in or supporting educational initiatives, research, or professional treatment programs.

As stated in AA’s guiding principles: “Our recovery is based on sharing our experience, strength, and hope with each other, that we may solve our common problem. More importantly, our continued sobriety depends upon helping others to recover from alcoholism.”

Anonymity in AA

Anonymity is a foundational principle of Alcoholics Anonymous, serving as both a safeguard for individual privacy and a symbol of equality among members. It ensures that personal identities are not disclosed in public media, allowing members to participate without fear of stigma or judgment.

Anonymity also underscores the spirit of humility and unity within AA, reminding members that the program prioritizes collective recovery over personal recognition. As outlined in AA literature, this principle is essential to creating a safe and supportive environment for all individuals seeking sobriety.