Open and Closed AA Meetings: Which One Is Right for You?

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other 12-step programs offer two types of meetings: open and closed. Each type of meeting has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to choose the one that's right for you.

Closed Meetings

Closed meetings are only open to members and prospective members of AA. This means that you must be sober and have a desire to stop drinking in order to attend.

Benefits of Closed Meetings:

• Members can speak openly and honestly about their problems or situations, knowing that everyone else in the room has experienced similar situations.
• Members can maintain their anonymity.
• Members can receive support and encouragement from other members.

Drawbacks of Closed Meetings:

• Non-members are not allowed to attend.
• Members may feel uncomfortable sharing their experiences in front of non-members.

Open Meetings

Open meetings are open to anyone, including non-members. This means that you do not have to be sober or have a desire to stop drinking in order to attend.

Benefits of Open Meetings:

• Non-members can learn more about the 12-step program and how it can help people recover from addiction.
• Non-members can support their loved ones who are in recovery.
• Members can share their experiences with non-members, which can help to break down stigma and promote understanding.

Drawbacks of Open Meetings:

• Non-members may feel uncomfortable sharing their experiences in front of a group of people they don't know.
• Members may feel uncomfortable sharing their experiences in front of non-members.

Which Meeting Is Right for You?

The best way to decide which type of meeting is right for you is to try both open and closed meetings and see which one you feel more comfortable with. You may find that you prefer one type of meeting over the other, or that you enjoy attending both types of meetings.

Here are some additional things to consider when choosing a meeting:

• Your comfort level with sharing your experiences in front of others. If you're not comfortable sharing your experiences in front of a group of people, you may prefer to attend a closed meeting.
• Your need for support from other members. If you're looking for support from other members, you may prefer to attend a closed meeting.
• Your desire to learn more about the 12-step program. If you're interested in learning more about the 12-step program, you may prefer to attend an open meeting.

Remember, the most important thing is to find a meeting where you feel comfortable and supported.