Not defending or lambasting AA. Have though been attending meetings in the UK for some 19 years and my experience is quite different from that of the OP. A good deal of laughter, hope and friendship with moments both tragic and solemn.
Above all a wealth of recovery.
If the meetings were chronically depressive in my area I would certainly be looking 'out of town'.
G
And I have been to meetings in US all over east coast as well as UK south and Midlands.
G