Many are given the option of attending AA either on their own, by judges, employers, family members, schools, or treatment programs in lieu of other consequences.

If you come to AA for a similar reason, you probably have some questions.

This page may provide some answers. Good luck in your future endeavors in AA.

If you have further questions after reading this Q&A please call us at 413-532-2111

Please take a moment to read the informative pamphlets at the bottom of this page after the Q&A section.  They can help answer any further questions you may have.

Your friends at Western Mass Intergroup

What can I expect from AA?

If a family member, judge, school, employer, or even yourself, has thought or suggested you should attend a meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous, there may be belief, or evidence, that you have a drinking problem.  If you have an attendance card to be signed most AA groups will cooperate an sign them.  Remember no AA group is obligated to sign any outside papers if they choose not to.  AA groups do not affiliate with any outside agency, but, will cooperate with them if they choose.
On the meeting page of this website you will see several options for AA meetings.  One of the options should fit your area and your availability to attend.  Please read the disclaimer and meeting code information on the beginning of each meeting list page to better understand which meeting will best suit you.

Do I have to give my full name?

When you go to an AA meeting you don't have to give your full name.  Some groups will ask the newcomers to "introduce themselves by first name only", this is so everyone can get to know each other.  Participation in AA is voluntary.

Will I have to speak?

It's not necessary to explain why you are there.  Others will share but no one will think it odd if you choose to remain silent.  There are many AA members who prefer to sit and listen at meetings.

Will AA respect my anonymity?

Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all AA's traditions.  Please respect this custom and treat in confidence who you see and what you hear.  You can count on others to respect your anonymity.

To learn more about Personal Anonymity please read the General Service Office pamphlet
"About Anonymity" by CLICKING HERE

What about religion?

Most AA members have a program based upon a personal belief in a Higher Power; there is no religious affiliation.  What you believe is up to you.  Many meetings open and close with a short prayer; participation is optional.

Are there dues or fees?

The AA groups pay certain services beyond rent, coffee/tea and literature.  If help (so freely given to us) is to be available to every alcoholic, on the day he or she asks for help, we must support the national and local General Service Structures and Intergroup.  Traditionally, AA groups are self-supporting.  If you accept this principle, you will show your gratitude when the basket comes your way.

To learn more about the AA 7th Tradition on donations please read the pamphlet from the General Service Office called "Money and Spirituality" by CLICKING HERE

Only you can decide...

Weather or not your an alcoholic... others may point out indications of a problem such as losing control, DUI arrests, lost jobs, broken marriages and families, blackouts, the shakes, ect.  But only you can tell if you are actually alcoholic.

At AA meetings you'll find people of all backgrounds.   They all have one thing in common; they are all searching for the solution to their common malady, alcoholism.  They are all trying to live a sober life, one day at a time.  We hope that you will keep an open mind and give it a try... What do you have to loose. 

If you have any questions fell free to call the Western Mass Intergroup Office at:
413-532-2111 or E-mail your questions and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.

Good Luck and Safe Journey as you seek the answers to a better way of life.

To learn more about AA so you may make a sound decision to attend you may also read the pamphlets available to you on our Newcomers Page by CLICKING HERE

          

A NEWCOMER ASKS

Valuable information on beginning the journey in
Alcoholics Anonymous.

                                                                                  


44 QUESTIONS

Questions and Answers about Alcoholics Anonymous

PROBLEMS OTHER THAN ALCOHOL

Answers to AA's Primary Purpose and suggestions
to those with other concerns than alcohol addiction