How to Find Support Groups Near You

Finding support groups near you can provide a valuable network of individuals facing similar challenges. Here's a guide to help you in your search:

Local Resources

• Healthcare Providers: Primary care physicians and mental health professionals can recommend support groups in your area.

• Support Group Websites: Many support groups maintain online directories with local chapter listings.

• Apps: Various mobile apps, such as Meeting Guide (Alcoholics Anonymous), NA Meeting Search (Narcotics Anonymous), Al-Anon Family Groups (Al-Anon), can help you locate meetings near you.

• Phone Book: Check the phone book for contact information of local support groups.

• Online Databases: Websites like Support Group Central or Meetup can provide detailed information, including meeting characteristics (e.g., newcomer-friendly, wheelchair-accessible, etc.).

Official Support Group Websites and Meeting Listings

Here's a list of official support group websites and meeting listings covering various philosophies and approaches:

Alcohol, Drug, Prescription Medication Misuse:

• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
• Celebrate Recovery
• Chemical Dependent Anonymous (CD)
• Cocaine Anonymous
• Crystal Meth Anonymous (CMA)
• Dual Recovery Anonymous
• Life Ring Secular Recovery
• Marijuana Anonymous
• Moderation Management
• Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
• Pills Anonymous
• SMART Recovery
• Women for Sobriety (WFS)

Sex Addiction, Disordered Relationships, and Abuse:

• Love Addicts Anonymous
• Sexaholics Anonymous
• Sex & Love Addicts Anonymous
• Sexual Compulsives Anonymous (SCA)
• Sexual Recovery Anonymous
• Survivors of Incest Anonymous

Disordered Eating and Food-Related Problems:

• Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous
• GreySheeters Anonymous
• Overeaters Anonymous

Emotional and Mental Health Recovery:

• Emotions Anonymous
• Anxiety and Depression Association of America
• National Alliance on Mental Illness

Financial and Acquisition Problem Behavior:

• Debtors Anonymous
• Gamblers Anonymous
• Spenders Anonymous
• Workaholics Anonymous (WA)

For Families and Codependents:

• Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA)
• Alanon and Alateen
• Codependents Anonymous
• Families Anonymous (FA)

Benefits of Support Groups

Participating in support groups can offer several benefits:

1. Social Support: Provides a community where individuals can share experiences and feel understood.

2. Coping Skills Development: Offers strategies for managing challenges and improving overall well-being.

3. Motivation Enhancement: Encourages individuals to stay committed to their recovery journey.

4. Reduction of Depressive Symptoms: Can help alleviate depressive feelings and promote emotional healing.

5. Improved Psychological Well-being: Enhances self-esteem, confidence, and overall mental health.

Remember

• Support groups complement professional treatment during recovery. They do not provide or replace treatment.

• Family and close friends can be a valuable source of support, but they may not fully understand the specific experiences and challenges you're facing.