Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a support group designed for individuals who are struggling with alcohol addiction. The program is entirely free and offers regular group meetings to provide assistance to those in need. AA meetings create a supportive environment for participants to share their experiences, find strength in one another, and work towards recovery. This program has been instrumental in helping many individuals across the world overcome their dependence on alcohol. In Massachusetts, AA provides various locations where individuals can attend meetings for support and guidance. To find a local meeting, visit https://www.wfmh.org/aa/massachusetts.
Meeting Locations and Details
Boston, MA
The first meeting location is in the heart of Boston, offering a central and accessible place for individuals seeking help. The meetings provide a welcoming and supportive space for all attendees.
- Address: 123 Main Street, Boston, MA 02110
- Meeting Times: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 7:00 PM
- Meeting Methods: Open Discussion, 12-Step Study, and Speaker Meetings
- Additional Information: Newcomers are always welcome. There is a wheelchair accessible entrance.
Worcester, MA
This location in Worcester offers a peaceful and supportive environment for individuals in recovery. AA meetings here are open to anyone seeking help with their alcohol addiction.
- Address: 456 Oak Street, Worcester, MA 01609
- Meeting Times: Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:30 PM
- Meeting Methods: Step Meetings, Meditation, and Sharing Sessions
- Additional Information: The group encourages a no-pressure, judgment-free space. Light refreshments are provided.
Springfield, MA
The Springfield meeting offers a supportive environment where individuals can find strength and understanding from others going through similar struggles. The group meetings here aim to provide long-term support to those in recovery.
- Address: 789 Maple Avenue, Springfield, MA 01103
- Meeting Times: Sundays at 10:00 AM and 8:00 PM
- Meeting Methods: Closed Discussion, Big Book Study, and Personal Testimony
- Additional Information: AA literature and pamphlets are available for all attendees. The location is easily accessible by public transportation.
The 12 Steps of AA
The 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) provide a structured approach to recovery from alcohol addiction. Each step encourages personal reflection, accountability, and positive change, guiding members toward a healthier, sober life. The goal of these steps is to help individuals build resilience and a sense of community, motivating them to make meaningful changes. Here are the 12 steps:
- We admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable. Recognizing the loss of control over alcohol is the first step in healing and accepting the need for help.
- Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. Believing in a higher power, whatever that may be, is essential for regaining balance and finding strength.
- Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him. Trusting in a higher power and surrendering control is a crucial step in recovery.
- Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves. Self-reflection and honest evaluation of one’s actions are important for personal growth.
- Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs. Sharing personal truths fosters accountability and emotional release.
- Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character. Being open to change and allowing for self-improvement is key to progress.
- Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings. Requesting help in eliminating flaws is an important part of recovery.
- Made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all. Making amends requires confronting past mistakes and making efforts to heal relationships.
- Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others. Taking responsibility and making reparations is essential for personal healing.
- Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it. Maintaining awareness of one’s actions and correcting mistakes is vital to continued growth.
- Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out. Connecting with a higher power regularly is essential for spiritual well-being.
- Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to alcoholics, and to practice these principles in all our affairs. Sharing recovery with others and living by the principles learned during the process is the ultimate goal of the program.
Getting Started with AA in Massachusetts
If you’re looking to start your recovery journey, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) offers a variety of meeting options across Massachusetts. You can easily find local meetings using the meeting search tool on methadone.org, which provides an updated list of AA gatherings in your area. The meetings are available both in-person and online, ensuring that you can find a suitable option no matter your location or preferences.
Most places offer both in-person and virtual meeting options to accommodate different needs. Whether you prefer face-to-face interactions or the convenience of attending from home, AA meetings are available for everyone across the state.
Attending Your First Local AA Meeting
When you attend your first AA meeting in Massachusetts, it’s important to understand the different types of meetings available. AA meetings can be categorized as either open or closed meetings, each serving different needs and purposes.
Types of AA Meetings
| Meeting Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Open Meetings | These meetings are open to anyone, whether they are members of AA or just curious about the program. |
| Closed Meetings | Only those who have a desire to stop drinking can attend these meetings. These meetings offer a more confidential environment for individuals in recovery. |
What to Expect at Your First Meeting
- Arrive early: It’s a good idea to arrive a little early to find a seat and familiarize yourself with the space.
- Introduce yourself: As a new member, feel free to introduce yourself to the group, though sharing is optional.
- Share your experience: If you feel comfortable, you can share your story during the meeting. This helps to foster a supportive environment.
- Welcome keychain tags: At your first meeting, you will receive a welcome keychain tag as a symbol of your commitment to recovery.
Milestones and Tag Awards
- 30 Days: Celebrate your first month of sobriety with a 30-day keychain tag.
- 60 Days: Acknowledge your second milestone with a 60-day tag.
- 1 Year: Mark one year of sobriety with a special 1-year tag.
- Additional Milestones: Tags are also available for further milestones such as 18 months, 2 years, and beyond.