AA hosts free meetings for members to share their experiences with addiction and to uplift each other. Members can bond over their common challenges while engaging in the 12 Steps, a spiritual foundation to develop strength and harness hope to recover. To select online sobriety groups, we searched for established programs that serve different communities and looked into comparative studies on online alcohol support programs. While speaking with a healthcare professional or taking an online assessment can be useful, you don’t need an official diagnosis of AUD to begin attending a support group. They can also be beneficial for helping prevent relapse in people with AUD who have completed an inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation program.
Our picks of the best online sobriety and alcohol recovery support groups
Focus on participating in activities that will help you become the healthiest version of yourself, and you will attract like-minded people. Remember to be careful, proceed slowly, and use discernment when meeting new people and deciding whether they are compatible with the new direction your life is taking in recovery. Addiction counselors report that substance abuse often begins when people use drugs or alcohol to enable them to socialize more easily. Most drugs have one or more characteristics that temporarily diminish anxiety or drown out negative criticism that might otherwise make socializing more difficult. Becoming dependent on drugs or alcohol for socialization can further limit an individual’s natural ability to socialize.
Step Meetings
The program’s foundation comes from a sociologist who believed that addiction among women could be traced to loss of identity, competing roles in society, and low self-esteem, depression, and guilt. LifeRing promotes an abstinent lifestyle through self-empowerment rather than belief in a higher power. Avoid starting a new romantic relationship for at least one year to remain focused on your recovery.
Women for Sobriety
The program is based on 13 Acceptance Statements encouraging spiritual and emotional growth. When these mantras are internalized, they provide a new way of thinking. Members are asked to wake up 15 minutes sober network early each day, go over the 13 acceptance statements, and think about each one. It also works with the hospitality industry to encourage more offerings to people who choose not to drink alcohol.
- The more people an addict has in their networks, the more likely it is that new and useful information will be passed among the various members.
- Yes, many online platforms and forums offer opportunities to connect with individuals in recovery from around the world.
- LifeRing coaches its members to become their “Sober Self” and leave the behaviors of their “Addict Self” in the past.
- This group offers both in-person meetings as well as an impressive number of daily online meetings offered at various times throughout the day.
- By surrounding yourself with the right people, you can build a strong and effective sober network.
Best for supporting impacted families
Building a sober support network is a journey that requires dedication, but the rewards are immeasurable. By creating a strong support system, identifying key members, and engaging in sober-friendly activities, you lay the foundation for a successful recovery. Establishing boundaries and practicing self-care further reinforce your commitment to maintaining sobriety. This network provides support, reduces isolation, and helps prevent relapse.
- Group meetings are free of charge, but donations are accepted and encouraged at the end of meetings.
- Incorporating professionals in your support network is also imperative as they possess the required expertise to aid in your recovery journey.
- When addicts complete drug or alcohol treatment together, they often form lasting bonds that become a key part of their support system.
- WFS also offers additional support through phone volunteers and an online forum.
- While the majority of these groups are free to join, some do require a monthly or annual investment.
- These events provide enjoyable ways to connect and support your recovery journey.
- For instance, AA and NA 12 Step meetings are often held at churches or other spiritual gathering places.