“Go to meetings.” It’s probably the first and most-often repeated advice given to people entering recovery for alcohol addiction, meetings: Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, or any other 12-step self-help meeting appropriate for your situation. But is there a difference between online Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings and face-to-face meetings? What are the pros and cons of each type of meeting?
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How Do Online AA Meetings Work?
Sure, going to a meeting is a great idea, but what if you find yourself stuck someplace where there are no meetings tonight? While there are meetings in nearly every geographic location you can imagine, sometimes you can find yourself without one when you need one. You may be wondering, can you do AA online? What are online Alcoholics Anonymous meetings like? How do they work?
Here’s some basic information about online AA meetings:
- Online meetings require a computer, access to the Internet, and some basic computer skills.
- Online meetings do not necessarily involve video. In most cases, you are typing, not talking or listening.
- Because of this, online meetings require a different type of focus and concentration compared to face-to-face meetings.
- Online meetings have a schedule, just like face-to-face meetings. Most online options offer daily Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. Check the websites for times.
Online Alcoholics Anonymous meetings can be incredibly beneficial if you’re traveling, in a remote location, or can’t drive due to disability, lack of transportation, or time schedules.
What Are the Benefits of Online Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings?
You may be wondering what benefit there is from an AA online meeting. They include:
- Online meetings are better than no meetings at all. Don’t reject the idea of an online meeting if you can’t get to a face-to-face one. Doing something for your recovery is better than doing nothing.
- If you struggle with social anxiety or other disorders that make it difficult to leave home, you can still attend a meeting. Your mental health issues or chronic health conditions do not need to place your recovery at risk.
- Transportation can be a challenge for some people in early recovery. An online meeting may be a good solution when you cannot arrange a ride or a vehicle breaks down at the last moment.
- If you are ill or injured and stuck in a hospital setting, feeling poorly or lonely could trigger cravings, but getting to a face-to-face meeting may be out of the question. An online meeting might be a good solution.
Online Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are a tremendous convenience, but sometimes the inconvenience of an in-person meeting is part of the benefit. The extra push it takes when you are tired after work and don’t feel like going out to find the energy to go to a meeting can be the most positive and healthful thing you can do for yourself.
What Is The Difference Between Online and In-Person AA?
The primary difference between online and in-person Alcoholics Anonymous meetings is that you are face-to-face with people who have been where you are. You can exchange hugs, smiles, comforting words, and plenty of laughter while discussing the everyday struggles that keep us all connected in recovery.
Ultimately, there is no correct answer when it comes to choosing between online and in-person AA meetings. The best decision is the one that works for you.
No matter which type of meeting you attend, Promises Right Step is here to help provide additional support as you start on the road to recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction, contact us today for a free and confidential addiction assessment. Our experienced team of professionals is here to help you every step of the way.
Access Support for Addiction Recovery with the Right Step Today
We understand recovery isn’t easy, but with our comprehensive programs and support system, we can help you find long-term sobriety. Contact us today at Promises Right Step to learn how we can help you find the path to lasting recovery.
Contact us at 17135283709 to learn more about our programs today.
