Alcoholics Anonymous, known to most people as AA, is a group therapy program open to anyone who believes they have an alcohol abuse problem. Since 1935, AA meetings have endeavored to support individuals to maintain their sobriety “one day at a time” and is estimated to have more than two million active members across the globe. Call our team today at 833.551.2304 to see how AA or our other Non-12-Step Programs at Gulf Breeze Recovery can help you move past your dependence on alcohol.
What Makes AA Different from Other Group Therapy Programs?
AA is open to all individuals and is a non-political, multi-racial, nonreligious organization that believes alcoholism to be a disease. It is committed to helping members of any age, education level, or background learn to identify problematic patterns that have led to their drinking and promote ongoing sobriety by living according to the famous “12 Steps.”
Is AA Right For Me?
Although no single program will be a perfect fit for everyone’s needs, membership has some clear benefits. As the largest recovery program in the United States, there are chapters in virtually every town and city in the country, allowing clients to experience continuity in their aftercare from rehab.
Some of the questions that AA asks prospective members to consider when attempting to answer “Do I need rehab?” or “Is AA right for me?” include:
- Have you ever attempted to stop drinking, but failed within a few days?
- Have you had problems with drinking over the last year?
- Has your drinking caused problems at home?
- Do you tell yourself you can stop drinking anytime you want to, though keep accidentally getting drunk?
- Do you drink to the point of blacking out?
- Have you ever felt your life would be better without drinking?
What Are the Benefits of AA, and What Are the Downsides?
AA offers some distinct advantages, particularly for individuals who don’t otherwise have access to a strong support system upon concluding rehab. Meetings provide a free, non-judgemental opportunity for a close personal connection with others who understand the challenges of living without alcohol. Registration is never necessary–those in need of help walk through the door and are free to attend as many or as few sessions as they choose. For many in recovery, these meetings are the key to their success.
Although AA is not a religious organization, it requires members to consider themselves as spiritual beings subject to a higher power, which historically has permitted a strong emotional framework in recovery. However, AA was founded by a Christian evangelical group, which does invite some members to conflate the group’s mission with those of other religious organizations.
Finally, it is important for prospective AA members to note that substance use disorders are complex and nuanced and should not expect a single form of therapy to address all of their needs. AA’s nearly 90 years of continuous operation means that some of its traditions and behavioral approaches are held rather firmly and may not offer the modifications required to suit some situations. For example, individuals may suffer from co-occurring disorders, polysubstance use disorders, or other issues that the AA method cannot treat in isolation. Also, some may find the uncensored candor indicative of group meetings to have a triggering effect.
Learn More About AA Group Therapy at Gulf Breeze Recovery
If you are beginning to wonder, “Do I need rehab?” help is a phone call away. Contact our team at 833.551.2304 to learn more about the role of AA and Non-12 Step rehab within Gulf Breeze Recovery’s holistic treatment program and how we can help you regain control today.
