If you are new to Alcoholics Anonymous or wondering whether it might help you, you’re in the right place.
Many people come to AA because they’re looking for help with a drinking problem—or because they’ve tried to stop drinking and found they can’t stay stopped. As it says in the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous: “If, when you honestly want to, you find you cannot quit entirely, or if when drinking, you have little control over the amount you take, you are probably alcoholic.” If that rings true for you, you’re not alone—and there is a way forward.
AA is built on shared experience. People who have struggled with alcohol help one another recover. The program has helped millions find a new way of living. As our literature says, “We have a way out on which we can absolutely agree, and upon which we can join in brotherly and harmonious action.”
How to join AA
The easiest way to get started is simply to attend a meeting. There are many meetings throughout the Greater Toronto Area, happening every day at different times and locations. You can search for meetings by region, day, time, or type, or use a map view to find one near you.
If you’d prefer to talk to someone first, you can call the AA helpline at 416-487-5591 or email 12step@aatoronto.org. Someone will be there to listen and help guide you. If needed, arrangements can also be made for a member to meet with you in person.
If you have questions about meetings or how everything works, a frequently asked questions section is also available to help you get oriented.
What to expect
At your first meeting, you don’t need to sign up, pay anything, or commit to anything. You can simply listen. If you choose to speak, it’s enough to say that you’re looking for help with a drinking problem.
There are two types of meetings:
- Open meetings, which anyone can attend
- Closed meetings, which are for those who have a desire to stop drinking
The only requirement for membership, as stated in our traditions, is “a desire to stop drinking.”
There are no dues or fees for AA membership. Voluntary contributions are collected at meetings to help cover basic expenses like rent and refreshments.
What AA does not do
AA does not provide medical advice, treatment, or detox services. Those needs should be addressed by qualified healthcare professionals. However, our literature department and local meetings have many pamphlets which can often help point you in the right direction if you’re unsure where to turn.
AA is not allied with any organization, religion, or institution. It is a fellowship of people who share their experience, strength, and hope with one another.
A message of hope
Recovery is possible. As the Big Book says, “We are people who normally would not mix. But there exists among us a fellowship… the feeling of having shared in a common peril is one element in the powerful cement which binds us.”
If you think you might have a drinking problem, you’re welcome at any meeting. You don’t have to figure it out alone.
If you’re still unsure, you can take a self-assessment here: https://www.aa.org/self-assessment