Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): Frequently Asked Questions

Key Takeaways

• Alcoholics Anonymous, a recovery program rooted in the 12 Steps, is for people who want to change their relationship with alcohol.
• AA is free to join, and it has no religious requirement. The only requirement is a desire to stop drinking.
• A 2020 Cochrane Review found AA and 12-Step facilitation programs can be as effective as other treatments for alcohol use disorder.¹
• Over 118,000 AA groups exist in 180+ countries, with meetings available online and in person.¹
• Sponsors are optional, but many members find peer support helpful.

Religion and Spirituality Questions

Do I Have to Be Religious to Join?

No, you don’t have to be religious to join Alcoholics Anonymous. The only requirement is that you have a desire to stop drinking alcohol. AA welcomes people of many different spiritual beliefs and religious backgrounds, including people who identify as atheists or agnostics.

What Happens if I Don’t Believe in a Higher Power?

Your higher power doesn’t have to be God or any other religious entity. Instead, your higher power can be of your own choosing. It can be anything that you feel connected to or care about. It may also be a strong conviction or belief.

In AA, a “higher power” often refers to a force greater than yourself that may support you in recovery.

Some examples of a higher power may include:

• The universe.
• Nature.
• Love.
• Music.
• Humanity.
• Your Alcoholics Anonymous group.

12-Step Questions

Do I Have to Complete All 12 Steps?

A 2020 Cochrane Review found that 12-Step programs can help some people who are working toward recovery from alcohol use disorder.¹ The 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous are designed to support you and provide a foundation for recovery. There is no requirement to complete all 12 Steps to be a member of AA, but it is recommended. Alternative recovery programs are also available.

If you do decided to work the Steps, you can move at your own pace and go through each subsequent step when you feel ready.

Learn More About the 12 Steps

• Step 1
• Step 2
• Step 3
• Step 4
• Step 5
• Step 6
• Step 7
• Step 8
• Step 9
• Step 10
• Step 11
• Step 12

What Is a Sponsor?

A sponsor is a person who supports other AA members as they work the 12 Steps. Sponsors often have significant time in AA and in recovery. A sponsor can offer support, encouragement, and a listening ear while sharing their experience with the alcohol recovery program. They may also share what helped them. Many sponsors call or meet with their sponsee regularly.

Can I Choose My Sponsor?

Yes, you can choose your own sponsor. The group you attend may have people who are available to sponsor someone.

Do I Have to Have a Sponsor?

You are not required to have a sponsor when you join Alcoholics Anonymous. Many people find that sponsor support feels helpful as they move through the 12-Step program.

General Alcoholics Anonymous Questions

How Does AA Help Me Quit Drinking?

Alcoholics Anonymous uses a 12-Step program. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) describes 12-step facilitation as an evidence-based approach used in addiction treatment.2 AA also includes peer support, which many people find helpful.

How Do You Join AA?

It is free to become a member of Alcoholics Anonymous, and it’s one option among many free addiction treatment options. The only requirement to join is the desire to stop drinking alcohol.

Where Can I Find an AA Meeting Near Me?

A 2020 Cochrane Review reports that AA has over 118,000 groups across 180+ countries.¹ Given how accessible AA is, you can easily search the Alcoholics Anonymous website and find a local AA meeting near you.

What Is the Big Book?

The "Big Book" outlines the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous and includes stories from people in recovery. Many people use this book during the recovery process, and some keep using it over time.

How Often Should I Go to AA Meetings?

AA doesn’t set a required number of meetings. Some people go every day, while others go less often. What works best for you will depend on your needs and your schedule.

Do I Have to Hit Rock Bottom Before Joining?

Many people join AA at different points in their lives. You can choose support at any time, including when you want to prevent alcohol-related harm.

Where and When Was Alcoholics Anonymous Founded?

Alcoholics Anonymous was founded in 1935 in Akron, Ohio, by Bill W., a former stockbroker, and Dr. Bob Smith, a surgeon.¹

What Are Some Popular Alcoholics Anonymous Quotes?

A few popular AA quotes that you might find helpful in your recovery process include:

• “One day at a time.”
• “There is an island of opportunity in the middle of every difficulty.”
• “When I stopped living in the problem and began living in the answer, the problem went away.”
• “If we were to live, we had to be free of anger.”
• “Easy does it, but do it!”
• ““The program works if you work it.”

Can Alcoholics Anonymous Help Me Fight Cravings?

Cravings are a common part of recovery. If you notice cravings while you work the 12 Steps, connecting with support may help. You might call or meet with your sponsor, reach out to a trusted friend or loved one, increase the number of meetings you attend, or even use a 24/7 support hotline.

Start Your Recovery Journey

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