Online meetings for alcoholics are a daily gathering of recovering alcoholics to support one another in maintaining and expanding their spiritual condition. Online meetings are also convenient, and they offer many benefits that traditional face-to-face meetings do not. Here are a few of these advantages:
Anonymity
Online meetings for alcoholics have become increasingly popular. These meetings are conducted in the same format as live meetings, with the speaker sharing his or her personal story of recovery and the audience discussing their own experiences. However, these meetings maintain a high level of anonymity and do not allow the reproduction of content or screenshots. To protect your privacy, you can register as an anonymous member. The best way to find an online meeting is to search for one by keyword.
| Have you tried Meetn, the new online meeting platform? It’s turning out to become a decent alternative to Zoom and to the other major platforms. |
Online meetings for alcoholics are a great option for members who are worried about their safety or do not want to meet with strangers. The general service office of Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) has established policies and procedures to ensure the anonymity of its members. These guidelines apply to all AA groups, including those online. While A.A. offices cannot guarantee that members will be safe when they participate in online meetings, they do not want to let that prevent them from taking part in the meetings.
Freeness
The main focus of an online meeting of alcoholics is freeness. Online meetings for alcoholics offer a place for people of any sobriety level to discuss their alcoholism and recovery without fear of judgment. The group offers a space where people can share their hopes, fears, and regrets without fear of embarrassment or ridicule. In an age of social distancing, freeness is often difficult to find, especially for those in recovery.
While SMART meetings are free to attend, donations are accepted near the end of each meeting. Other online meetings for alcoholics include Loosid, an online community of substance abstainers. Loosid also offers “Boozeless Guides” and a sober dating community. The site’s mission is to connect people struggling with substance abuse to support their recovery and help them move forward in life.
12-Step program
Attending 12-Step program online meetings for alcoholic recovery is a convenient way to join the 12-Step program. Although there are few risks and negatives, these programs do not appeal to everyone. For some, religion is a problem, and others prefer action and surrender to a higher power. For others, the 12-Step philosophy may be too nebulous or not align with their personal beliefs. In any case, whether a 12-Step program is right for you depends on your compatibility with the program’s philosophy.
Those with disabilities, like social anxiety, can attend online meetings without the need for a physical location. These meetings also provide an opportunity to connect with others who share similar struggles and concerns. They are completely confidential and allow for individuals to share their stories and experiences, as well as get support from their peers. Anyone can attend online meetings and watch them on their phone. To find a 12-Step online meeting, visit SMART Recovery.
Alternatives to face-to-face meetings
There are many alternatives to face-to-face meetings for AA, such as the Internet and the social networking site Reddit. These non-religious groups focus on sobriety and mutual support. A former alcoholic, Christopher was frustrated with AA’s focus on a “higher power” and sought out alternatives. The result is a network of secular organizations based on sobriety.
Twelve-step programs blend peer-group therapy and sponsorship, but these have not been effective for everyone. Those in rural areas and who are hesitant to discuss their alcoholism in person are at a greater disadvantage. Some of these alternatives emphasize recovery coaching and moderation techniques, and are billed as mental health and educational recovery programs. If you’d like to connect with people with the same struggles you’re facing, you can sign up for SMART Recovery, a program that offers complete anonymity.
A major alternative to AA is LifeRing Secular Recovery. LifeRing uses a non-religious approach to help members overcome their addiction. The Addict Self is the driving force behind self-destructive behavior. LifeRing also emphasizes personal responsibility, encouraging members to find their own strength instead of relying on steps to follow. They offer face-to-face meetings and private email support.