2bhappier

I told someone I was going to AA and she confided that she thinks she might have a drinking issue as well. This person asked if it is common for people who are continuing to drink to go to AA and if it can take a while for AA newcomers to actually stop drinking.

I think the answer is yes but I wanted to know from others. If you continued to drink how long did you do so? I think I must have gone to more than a few AA meetings before I was able to put down the bottle.

ErikT

I think its common for active alcoholics who are aware they have a problem to attend meetings but....you really aren't supposed to go under the influence.

Taking5

I think it is very common. I know I went to several while I was still drinking but never under the influence.

2bhappier

I never went to a meeting while intoxicated but I did go to a few and did drink the same day I went. Is that horrific?

ClearMind

I really don't believe that AA will turn anyone down, unless of course they are under the influence!

sugarbear1

the only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking

unless you create a problem, you will be welcome to sit in on the meeting

tomsteve

"I never went to a meeting while intoxicated but I did go to a few and did drink the same day I went. Is that horrific? "
I didn't do that either. I waited until after the meeting to drink. it was insane.

but back to original question:
ive seen quite a few come around and still drinkin. some of them are sober and have been for some time. some aren't.

one thing ive heard from people that came around AA and were still drinkin ( me included) is that them meetings took the fun out of drinkin.

freethinking

I've gone under the influence (not that I recommend it) and was still treated very compassionately. So yes, you can absolutely go even if you haven't quit drinking. Of course you'll get more out of it if you go sober though.

heath480

I have been in many meetings with people who are drunk and unless disruptive they are warmly welcomed and treated with kindness.

I he your friend attends a meeting with you.

whiskeyman

Oh i went while drunk, I felt ashamed but knew it was the only place where the help was.

I was warming the seat in AA for a year before i got sober and starting listening and working the program the way that the sober members did

FreeOwl

I've heard a few stories about people that came into AA and got it, right from the go.... and remained sober.

But, I've heard hundreds of stories of people whose journey with recovery - whether AA or 'cold turkey' or rehab or AAVRT or Rational Recovery - involved a process of attempts that deepened in understanding and acceptance over a period of time, usually years.