How do AA meetings work

[AA_AA]

Forgive the anonymous new account...i guess it goes with the territory of the topic.

I'm sat here on a monday morning with a hangover instead of going to work. Its long past time i did something about it.

I think i should go to AA. I need to.

But how does it work? Just like in the films? Can you just go and be present - i want to go, but i don't want to have to tell my story, mostly because i don't know what it is and as a functioning alcoholic theres no particular flashpoint or crises to recount.

I looked on their website in the middle of drinking last night and see that there is a meeting in my hometown, but also in all the nearby towns too. Shall i go further afield to make it more anonymous, though its not like i have any stature locally or anything.

Thanks

[Phil Dicky]

First of all well done for acknowledging there's a problem, as someone who lived with an alcoholic that's a massive step.
I would suggest do what you feel comfortable with, attend a session further afield if you'd feel happier doing that. Be guided by the organiser of the event and take part when you feel like doing so.
Good luck.

[Dibble]

There are other options too, both statutory NHS substance misuse services and charitable organisations. My ex wife worked extensively in this field (still does, I think). AA doesn’t work for everyone, which isn’t a criticism of them, it’s more that you need to find treatment that works for you, as you are then much more likely to be successful.

Some services are one to one, some are group based, some use medication, some use talking therapies. There are a lot of options and combinations of treatments.

Your GP should have a list of local services, or a quick Google should throw up what is available locally. Some services will only treat people from a specific catchment area, so you may need to factor that in to your decision as well.

Good luck.

[Dr Interceptor]

Best of luck, please do let us know how you get on, and what it's like.

I'm in a very similar position, I think.

[Tineca]

Hi . Firstly, it's not your fault. If you feel bad don't. It's not your fault that you feel cravings for drink. It's like any other drug, nicotine, heroin, etc, it's just we don't see alcohol in this way. Once we get used to it we can't always control our intake. It's just the way it works on our brain. Best thing you can do right now is book an appointment with your gp. You might cause yourself damage if you stop cold turkey. buy a book on kindle app called kick the drink easily by Jason vale. Also join a forum called bright eye. Good luck and be ok with yourself.