What is Alcoholics Anonymous?

For over 90 years, A.A. has helped alcoholics stay sober. One day at a time.

In short

Help to stop drinking

Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) is a fellowship of people who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. Through the program of the Twelve Steps, A.A. has helped alcoholics stay sober for over 90 years.

History

How A.A. began

Alcoholics Anonymous began on June 10, 1935 in Akron, Ohio (USA), when two chronic alcoholics — Dr. Robert H. Smith (Bob S.) and William Griffith Wilson (Bill W.) — met and, by sharing their experience as problem drinkers, achieved lasting sobriety. Its success rests on a simple idea: One alcoholic can help another through a bridge of understanding. The name comes from the book Alcoholics Anonymous, first published in 1939.

Our purpose

The A.A. Preamble

The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for A.A. membership; we are self-supporting through our own contributions. A.A. is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organization or institution; does not wish to engage in any controversy; neither endorses nor opposes any causes. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.

How it works

How an A.A. meeting works

Members use the Twelve Steps to stay sober through spiritual principles that, practiced as a way of life, help remove the obsession to drink. Groups rely on the Twelve Traditions to stay united. Sessions are mutual-help, attendance is voluntary and services are free. If you would like to come, check the schedule and simply show up. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking.

What A.A. does not do

Does not try to persuade anyone to become a member.

Does not sponsor or take part in research.

Does not keep attendance records or case histories.

Does not monitor or try to control its members.

Does not provide detox, hospitalization or medication.

Does not offer religious services or organize retreats.

Does not provide housing, food, clothing, money or jobs.

Does not accept payment for its services, nor outside contributions.

Does not provide letters of reference to authorities or courts.

Does not engage in education about alcohol.

The program

The Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions

The heart of A.A. is the Twelve Steps — a guide to personal recovery — and the Twelve Traditions, which keep each group united. You do not need to understand them all to begin: It is enough to attend a meeting and have the desire to stop drinking. Learn more in our literature section.

Take the first step