Can’t Stop Drinking? AA Meetings Portland Oregon Can Help
For a long time, I told myself I didn’t have a drinking problem. I made excuses, stress, bad days, celebrations, anything to justify another drink. But deep down, I knew alcohol had taken control. I tried to cut back, but it never lasted. The cycle of drinking, regret, and empty promises to quit kept repeating. It wasn’t until I searched for “AA meetings Portland Oregon near me” that I finally took the first real step toward change.
Hitting Rock Bottom with Alcohol Addiction
I didn’t wake up one day and decide to be addicted to alcohol. It happened little by little. What started as casual drinking turned into something I relied on. It affected my relationships, my job, and my health. I’d wake up feeling guilty, telling myself, “This is the last time.” But it never was. I thought I could quit alone, but every attempt ended the same way, right back at the bar or with a bottle in my hand.
It wasn’t just about willpower. Alcohol had become something I depended on, and I needed help. The idea of going to a meeting terrified me, but deep down, I knew I had nothing to lose.
Walking Into My First AA Meeting
The first time I walked into an AA meeting, my hands were shaking. I was convinced I didn’t belong there. I expected judgment, lectures, or people telling me what to do. Instead, I found a group of people who understood exactly what I was going through.
Nobody pressured me to speak. Nobody asked me personal questions. I just sat and listened. Hearing other people share their experiences made me realize I wasn’t alone. They had been where I was, and many had turned their lives around. It gave me hope that maybe I could do the same.
What AA Meetings Portland Oregon Near Me Are Like
Every meeting is a little different, but they all have the same purpose, helping people stay sober. Some meetings are big, some are small. Some focus on a topic, and others are open discussions. The one thing they all have in common is support.
People share their stories, struggles, and successes. Some meetings read from AA literature, while others focus on the 12 steps of AA. There’s no pressure to share if you’re not ready. Just showing up and listening is enough.
Portland has meetings all over the city, including early morning, lunchtime, and late at night. Whether you want a traditional group setting or a smaller, more private meeting, there’s a place for everyone.
How AA and the 12 Steps Helped My Sobriety
AA didn’t just help me quit drinking. It gave me tools to stay sober. I found a sponsor, someone who had been through the same struggles and was willing to guide me. I started working through the steps, which helped me deal with the reasons I drank in the first place.
One of the biggest things that helped was the community. Knowing I had people to call when I felt weak made a difference. I learned that I didn’t have to do it alone. Sobriety isn’t about willpower. It’s about support, accountability, and making small changes every day.
Finding AA Meetings Portland Oregon Near Me
If you’re searching for “AA meetings near me”, there are plenty of options in Portland. Some are in churches, community centers, and recovery centers. There are also online meetings if you’re not ready to attend in person.
For many people, AA is just one part of recovery. Some work with sponsors, some use a sobriety calculator to track their progress, and others seek extra support from “therapists near me”. Everyone’s path is different, and that’s okay.
Taking the First Step Toward Sobriety
If alcohol is controlling your life, you don’t have to go through it alone. I know how scary it feels to take that first step, but I promise, it’s worth it. The hardest part is walking through the door. After that, you’ll find people who understand and want to help.
Whether you’re looking for AA groups, a halfway house, or just a place to start, support is out there. Don’t wait for things to get worse. Search for meetings, reach out, and take the first step toward a better life. Use our directory to find “AA meetings Portland Oregon near me” and start your journey to sobriety today.