Why I Chose AA: Access an AA Meeting in Los Angeles and Recover

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I never thought I’d get here. I never thought I’d be the person who would need help to stop drinking. But after years of trying to manage my addiction on my own, I finally hit a breaking point. I was caught in a cycle of drinking to forget, drinking to feel good, and drinking to fill the void. When I finally made the decision to access an AA meeting in Los Angeles, I had no idea what to expect. But deep down, I knew I couldn’t keep going down the path I was on. I was tired of waking up with the same regrets, tired of feeling empty, and most importantly, tired of feeling alone.

Read more: Handling Social Pressure While in AA San Diego

Taking the First Step

I had heard about AA meetings before, but they always seemed a little out of reach. There were so many things I didn’t understand about them: the 12 steps of AA, how long the meetings lasted, and whether or not I was even “bad enough” to need help. I also worried about the stigma. But one day, I decided to Google “AA near me” and found a local meeting in Los Angeles that felt right. It was a small step, but it was my first step. I didn’t know it then, but that decision would change my life.

My First AA Meeting: Not What I Expected

Walking into that first AA meeting was terrifying. I’ll be honest: my heart was racing, and I was unsure of what to expect. The people there were friendly, but I couldn’t shake the feeling of being an outsider. Still, as the meeting went on, I started to relax. Hearing the stories of others who had struggled with the same issues, I realized I wasn’t alone. There were people in that room who understood what it felt like to want to drink away the pain and who were now sober. They weren’t perfect, but they were doing the work.

I’ll never forget the moment someone mentioned the sobriety calculator in the meeting, showing how far they’d come in their recovery. It made me realize that recovery wasn’t just about abstaining from alcohol: it was about growth, community, and consistency. That’s when I knew AA was the right place for me.

Why AA Works for Me

The thing that kept me coming back to AA meetings was the group support. It wasn’t just about sitting in a room and listening to people talk; it was about feeling understood. In my darkest moments, I could go to an AA meeting, and there would always be someone who “got it.” There’s something powerful about hearing others share their struggles and triumphs. We were all in this together, fighting for our sobriety.

But it wasn’t just about sharing stories. The 12 Steps of AA were also a big part of what helped me turn my life around. These steps are simple but profound, offering a clear roadmap for healing. Each one helped me face the things I’d been running from: guilt, shame, fear, and begin the work of real self-improvement. The meetings became a space where I could focus on this journey, surrounded by people who understood. I remember diving into the FAQs of AA meetings early on and finding answers to things I was too afraid to ask out loud. That knowledge, along with the support, gave me the tools I needed to move forward.

The Benefits Beyond Sobriety

I’ve learned that AA isn’t just about putting down the bottle. It’s also about learning how to cope with life without alcohol. Since I started attending AA meetings, I’ve noticed a shift in how I handle stress and tough emotions. I don’t feel the need to drink to numb out anymore. I’ve gained clarity, a deeper understanding of myself, and a stronger sense of community.

And while sobriety is my primary focus, I’ve also started looking into additional support, like therapy. I’ve found myself Googling “therapists near me” to explore other ways to grow mentally and emotionally. I’ve even been thinking about how I can give back to the AA community by helping others who are just starting their recovery journey.

The Ongoing Journey

It hasn’t been easy, and I know recovery is a lifelong process. There are days when I feel strong and confident, and other days when the urge to drink creeps in. But the one thing that has remained constant is AA. The group meetings, the friends I’ve made, and the support I get are all part of why I’m still sober today. Places like the Radar Recovery Center also played a big role, offering extra guidance and resources when I needed more structure. Between AA and the support systems around me, I’ve been able to stay on track and keep moving forward.

If you’re reading this and wondering whether AA is for you, I encourage you to take that first step. You can access an AA meeting in Los Angeles and start your own journey. Whether you're just starting or looking for a halfway house, AA can be the community you need to heal. There’s no shame in admitting you need help, and there’s no better place to begin than in a room full of people who understand.

Start Your Journey Today

Recovery is hard, but it’s also one of the most rewarding things you can do for yourself. If you're in Los Angeles or anywhere nearby, there are AA meetings near me that can help you find the support you need. Accessing AA meetings is just the beginning. You don’t have to do it alone. If I can do it, so can you. Take that first step toward recovery today.

Note from the AA Meetings Team: We’re here to support you every step of the way. If you're struggling with addiction, don't hesitate to find a meeting in your area. The path to recovery is just a step away.