Alcoholics Anonymous, also referred to as A.A., is an international fellowship of men and women who self-identify as having a drinking problem. According to Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc. it is “nonprofessional, self-supporting, multiracial, apolitical, and available almost everywhere. There are no age or education requirements. Membership is open to anyone who wants to do something about his or her drinking problem.” Bill W. and Dr. Bob founded A.A. in 1935 in Akron, Ohio. The Alcoholics Anonymous program is divided into twelve steps. Each of the twelve steps build upon each other and are individually and as a whole intended to help individuals foster and cultivate the ability to lead a satisfying life without alcohol. The A.A. program is carried out through support group meetings (A.A. meetings) and individual peer-mentorship (sponsors).
Finding AA Meetings
There are a variety of Alcoholics Anonymous meetings held at various times throughout each and every day all over Los Angeles, California. Each A.A. meeting has a unique dynamic as each meeting is comprised of different individuals. Additionally, some A.A. meetings will be geared toward individuals with specialized needs (e.g. individuals with a dual diagnosis). Some Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are held in an open format, where anyone interested (including nonalcoholic) in the A.A. program are welcome to attend. There are also closed A.A. meetings that are intended only for members of A.A. who have a drinking problem and have a desire to stop drinking. Mental health clinics, hospitals, detox centers, primary care physicians, and substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment programs can provide a list of A.A. meetings available in any given area. Moreover, several reputable websites have compiled a list of active A.A. meetings that occur throughout the Los Angeles Area (e.g. Alcoholics Anonymous Los Angeles Central Office). Finding an A.A. meeting in Los Angeles should not be too difficult, as there are an enormous number of A.A. meetings held daily. If anything, due to the high volume of meetings held, deciding which meeting to attend may be the most challenging part of the process. Consider the tips below when searching for an A.A. meeting in LA:
- Location: make sure the location of the A.A. meeting is geographically feasible
- Time: make sure you are able make time or fit the timing of the A.A. meeting into your schedule
- Open or Closed: make sure the format of the meeting is something you are comfortable with
Not every meeting will necessarily resonate with each person, which is why it is helpful to be aware of different A.A. meeting options available in LA.
For Information and Support
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one in regards to substance abuse and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. If left untreated, substance abuse can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. Keep in mind: you are not alone! There is an entire network of professionals that are available to help and support you and your loved one throughout the recovery process. The earlier you seek support, the sooner your loved one can return to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions regarding our specific program at Haven House Addiction Treatment and/ or general substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment related information. Our highly trained staff is readily available to discuss how we might best be able to help you and your loved one. We can be reached by phone at 424-318-3777. You are also welcome to contact anytime us via email at admissions@hhtxc.com.
