Online meetings for AA are a wonderful alternative to traditional face to face meetings. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a service.
COVID-19 forced AA support groups to switch to online meetings
Alcoholics Anonymous support groups have faced challenges in meeting the needs of members. This has led to the development of online meetings.
| 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. |
Many AA groups have shifted to this new format. For the most part, these meetings are based on the same structure as the live meetings. It is important to note that there are some positives and negatives to this approach.
One of the positives is that these meetings offer a safe and supportive environment for recovering users. Another is that these online meetings allow participants to connect with other recovering individuals. The downside is that this form of meeting may be difficult to find.
There are also concerns regarding the security of these meetings. Some people are concerned about the possibility of viruses being transmitted to others. However, these fears should not prevent others from seeking help.
One of the advantages of online meetings is that there are fewer costs involved. Meetings also require fewer transportation expenses.
Online meetings are popular with a lot of 12-step groups. In fact, more than 200 local AA meetings have shifted to this type of meeting format. They have also been successful.
The negatives to this new way of meeting are that clients may be afraid of the technology. Some people worry about DTs (disease transmissions), or hallucinations. Also, people who have an active addiction may feel a sense of isolation.
Zoom Bombers and Trolls are a problem with online meetings
Alcoholics Anonymous meetings have become increasingly prone to trolls and zoom bombers. Several New York Inter-Group AA meetings were targeted in recent days. Organizers published guidelines for blocking intruders.
The new security measures were designed to make meetings safer. However, the platform developers do not take this responsibility seriously.
A Twitter bot constantly searches for unprotected Zoom video conferences on the internet. It records real-time links to these meetings on Twitter.
The bot shares 947 links between the 12th and 27th of May. Among the links is a pornographic video. In addition, the bot has also been known to shout discriminatory remarks.
The latest AA meeting to be targeted was held on Monday. An unseen individual disrupted the meeting by making racist rants and referencing alcohol. After the incident, Timo called the police.
Another New York AA member Liza P had similar experiences. She found a male troll in her women’s meeting. Fortunately, she was able to kick him out of the meeting.
Other concerns include the privacy and accessibility of online meetings. Some users reported feeling scared, uncomfortable, and panicked when they attended a Zoom meeting. These worries raised some eyebrows.
AA members have expressed doubts about the safety of virtual meetings. They have also raised questions about their anonymity. While these are valid concerns, the best defense would be for Zoom to improve its security measures.
They’re a wonderful option on the road to recovery
There are many advantages of attending online meetings for AA. For instance, you don’t have to worry about a room full of people judging you for your alcohol intake. You can also discuss topics in the context of your own life.
While it’s not for everyone, it’s an opportunity to share your experiences with others and learn more about yourself and your addiction. Aside from the aforementioned, you can also benefit from the peer support that a group provides. If you are not a fan of AA, then it’s possible to find a more secular alternative.
While there are many AA online options, you may have a hard time sifting through the options to find the best fit for your needs. One option to consider is the Secular Organizations for Sobriety. In short, it’s a group of independent groups that offer a variety of services and programs ranging from a free online AA forum to a mobile app that helps you to make positive life changes.
Online meeting platforms are also a great way to meet up with other alcoholics and substance abusers who are in recovery from similar challenges. This is especially useful for those who live in remote areas where AA isn’t easily accessible.
However, you still have to consider the pros and cons before you can pick the right group for your needs. Many people struggle with sticking to a rigid schedule and are not always able to attend regular meetings. It’s also important to remember that you can’t always count on a loved one to show up at your AA meetings.