About Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) has been helping people recover from alcoholism for more than 80 years. If your drinking feels out of control, you are not alone—and A.A. may be able to help. Our program is built on one simple idea: one alcoholic helping another.

What A.A. Is

Alcoholics Anonymous is a worldwide fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other so they may solve their common problem and help others recover from alcoholism.

•Membership requirement: A desire to stop drinking.
•Cost: There are no dues or fees. A.A. is self-supporting through its members’ voluntary contributions.
•Independence: A.A. is not affiliated with any religion, political group, or outside organization. We do not endorse or oppose causes.
•Primary purpose: To stay sober and to help other alcoholics achieve sobriety.

How A.A. Works

A.A. is not a professional treatment program. It does not provide medical services, counseling, or therapy. Instead, members help one another by sharing their personal stories:

•What life was like before recovery.
•What led them to seek help.
•How life has changed in sobriety.

The program of recovery is outlined in The Twelve Steps, which provide a framework for self-examination, personal growth, and living free from alcohol.

What A.A. Is Not

•Not a religious organization. A.A. welcomes people of all faiths, as well as agnostics and atheists.
•No central authority. Each group is self-directed, and members participate voluntarily.
•No obligations. You don’t have to sign up or commit to anything. You’re a member if you say you are.

A Global Fellowship

Today, A.A. is an informal society of more than 2 million recovering alcoholics worldwide. Groups meet in cities and towns across the globe, as well as online, offering hope and support to anyone seeking a solution to their drinking problem.

If you think you may have a drinking problem, A.A. offers a proven path to recovery, free of charge, and open to anyone who seeks help.