Addiction support groups: find AA and NA meetings

Seeking support for addiction can be challenging. Recognising that you need help is an important first step on your journey to recovery. Support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can offer ongoing support and a strong foundation for maintaining sobriety.

These groups are a key element of many people’s support network while they are in recovery. Many have been around for generations, helping people overcome addiction through mutual support, shared experiences, and structured recovery methods like the 12 Steps programme.

About addiction support groups

In the UK, there are many different addiction support groups designed to help you or your loved ones during recovery. There are groups offered by local initiatives, charity-run groups and anonymous groups like AA and NA. Many of these groups are renowned worldwide as an essential place to get support in addiction recovery.

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is tailored to those dealing with alcohol addiction, while Narcotics Anonymous (NA) supports people recovering from drug addiction, whether it's prescription drugs, illicit substances, or other narcotics. There are also groups that target behavioural addictions, such as gambling, like Gamblers Anonymous (GA). 

These groups follow similar principles, often guided by the 12 Step model of recovery, encouraging personal accountability, honesty, and self-improvement through shared stories and fellowship.

Another key principle of AA and NA is anonymity. This means that anything shared in a meeting remains confidential, providing a safe and non-judgmental space for participants. Anonymity helps to build trust and allows people to speak openly about their struggles. By keeping each member’s identity private, these groups create a safe space and allows everyone to focus on their recovery journey.

How they work will vary from group-to-group, but generally those who attend will have a safe space to share their experiences of recovery (or not if they wish), listen to their peers and generally benefit from the shared experience of others in their situation.

Finding an AA or NA meeting

AA and NA meetings are held all over the UK, making them easily accessible. They are free for all and are held at different times of the day to suit your needs.

There are a few different ways to find a meeting that’s right for you. If you are in addiction treatment, or have just finished, your provider can give you a list of helpful support groups. You can also find an AA meeting using the official AA meeting finder tool. NA have an official NA meeting finder tool too, helping you find a local NA meeting.

If attending in person isn’t an option, online AA and NA meetings can provide the same sense of community and support from the comfort of your home. Some online meetings may require pre-registration, while others allow you to join freely. Many directories, including the AA and NA websites, offer filters to search for virtual meetings.

You’ll find many people in these meetings who went through the same addiction treatment programmes and are now giving back to those that are struggling. AA and NA meetings are filled with peer supporters who have been there and seen it all, making them a perfect environment for those needing inspiration and motivation to keep going.

Other ways to find support

As well as the options above, you can reach out to the following for more support:

• GP or healthcare provider: Your GP can refer you to local support groups or addiction services.
• Local charities: Organisations like Adfam or Mind may offer meetings or support tailored to addiction recovery or family support.
• Community organisations: Churches or other community centres may host or have information on addiction recovery groups.
• Private treatment options: Private addiction rehab, like those at Priory, offer holistic treatments for those in addiction recovery. We can also provide step-down outpatient treatment. Coupled with attending peer support groups, they can form part of relapse prevention and ensure long-term recovery.

Attending a meeting

Attending a meeting can bring on a mix of emotions. It’s natural to feel nervous, unsure, or even overwhelmed when going to a meeting. You might worry about being judged or feel like you have to share something, but these feelings will soon ease when you find the right meeting for you. 

The wide variety of available groups allows you to find a meeting that fits your comfort level and needs. If one meeting doesn't meet your expectations, it's worth exploring others. No two meetings are exactly alike, and each provides a new opportunity to connect with supportive people. Meetings are available to accommodate different needs, such as:

• Beginners' groups: Ideal for those who are new to the recovery process and want to ease into meetings.
• Addicts-only meetings: These are closed meetings for people dealing with addiction. They offer a space for personal and relatable talks.
• Open meetings: These are available to anyone, including family members, friends, or those interested in learning more about recovery.

You don’t have to share anything in any of these meetings, you are welcome to sit and listen to the stories others tell. Hearing others share their experiences can be inspiring, providing hope and a sense of connection. You may even find that their stories reflect your own struggles, helping you feel less isolated.

When attending a meeting, there are a few guidelines to follow such as arriving on time, listening attentively, and respecting anonymity. These simple courtesies help to create a respectful and calming space where everyone feels heard and valued.

Family support

Many families find comfort and guidance through support groups and charities that understand how addiction affects relationships and daily life. Organisations, such as Adfam, specialise in providing support for families affected by addiction. Adfam offers:

• Support groups where you can connect with other families facing similar challenges.
• Advice and resources to help you understand addiction and how to support a loved one in recovery.
• Workshops and information sessions to equip you with coping strategies and communication tools.

Your GP or local authority may be able to refer you to other family-focused support services. Many areas have community programmes that provide advice and emotional support for people with a family member's addiction.

Other national and local charities may also provide valuable support, including helplines, counselling services, and educational resources. These services aim to ensure that families feel empowered, supported, and informed throughout their journey.

Like peer support groups, family support is also a key pillar in the addiction recovery process. When a loved one is in the treatment, family members are encouraged to take an active role in support sessions dedicated to them.

Post-treatment, treatment providers like Priory offer 12-months of family support, including similar groups where you lean on others and source advice and support to help you help your loved one.