loveablelobster

Pretty much as it says on the tin. I've promised myself I'll go & that it will be fine - but that's just 'me'.

I have never been to one before and don't really know what to expect from the other people. I know that everybody is there for the same reason but after that...a bit clueless.

I'm nervous, very very nervous but also quite excited about the possibilities now.

Any advice would be appreciated

CAPTAINZING2000

What type of meeting are you attending?
Is it an open discussion?

Coldfusion

Get there early and stay late. If you are worried, call your local AA number and maybe someone will talk to you or even meet you and accompany you to the meeting. Rides and childcare are sometimes available.

tomsteve

glad to read yer goin!
theres quite a few threas on this topic:
http://www.soberrecovery.com/forums/...archid=5243381
what to expect...hmmm..welp....id say don't expect anything other than to find a place with people that have been in your shoes and have a great solution.
in the meantime, you could do a goggle search for "big book online' and do some reading-learn what the AA program is about.

Mountainmanbob

Relax you will find many friendly common souls there who have suffered as we have and are yet now sober.

Many of them carry the keys that will help us to unlock the door to long term sobriety.

Mountainman

ScottFromWI

Expect to meet other people who are exactly like you and have either gone through what you are, or are currently going through it. You don't need to even say a word if you choose not to, you can just listen.

ultradad

AA saved my life! You'll be in good company and from what I've heard there's a big difference from just going to meetings and then actually doing what they suggest!

Do the work and you'll stay sober : )

Keep us posted and all the best!

FeenixxRising

Welcome to the site Loveable, the wiki site linked below gives a good description of what to expect from your first meeting. It's natural to be a little apprehensive, but don't let that stop you from attending. I believe you will find that any fears you might have about attending were unfounded.

How to Get Through Your First Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting

whiskeyman

Please just stay excited.
If you are anything like me, you will love it and be changed forever

Boleo

AA meetings are full of all kinds of people. It is just a matter of time before you run into someone just like yourself.

Not that it's always a good thing. Whenever I run into someone just like myself, we end up debating till the cows come home.

Dee74

Welcome loveablelobster
Let us know how you get on

D

FlyerFan

It's normal to feel that way the first time, and the first few times after that. I threw up on the way to my first meeting from the anxiety. But I forced myself to go, and I am so glad that I did. I have almost 3 years sober today. Don't feel afraid. Nobody will make you do anything that you don't want to do. You don't even have to talk at all if you don't want to.

Ken33xx

Check out four or five different meetings and let us know what you think.

Good luck

Tamerua

I was scared to death and it turned out to be the best thing that I've ever done for myself as an adult. I found a place full of people just like me who welcomed me. You're going to do great!

IOAA2

hi and welcome. Ideas and suggestions above are right on. IF you can and the opportunity arises I’d suggest just to say your new and just want to listen, the same at a discussion meeting. I’ve been going for many years and I still feel good being among people who understand each other. Try to remember that everyone there had a first meeting jitters.

BE WELL

loveablelobster

Thank you everyone - it's at 8pm so I'm getting a little 'fight or flighty' now - but I'll stay strong.

I guess it feels a little strange because typically this is a stage where I would turn to a few drinks to calm my nerves but I haven't given in so that can only be a good thing.

I'll let you know how it turns out tonight.

SoberCAH

Welcome, my friend.

I hope that you stick around, make some new friends and follow the recommended steps to recovery.

loveablelobster

Well...I went and I loved it!! It was such a beautiful eve outside and it was the Top Table guy (still getting my terminology down.... :P ) it was his 21st anniversary so he gave a talk about his whole journey and it was really moving and inspirational and really the first time I've ever heard someone not on TV or radio speak that openly. It was basically the best 1st time I could have gone.

It was wonderful, and you were right everyone was extremely supportive and welcoming.
Got a few numbers too

All in all I will def be going back next week. Bring it on!

Mountainmanbob

So glad that you took the time to attend and enjoyed yourself.

It's great spending some time with ones who have overcome.

Mountainman