Frequently Asked Questions
The only requirement for A.A. membership is a desire to stop drinking.
How can I join A.A. in South Africa?
You are an AA member if and when you say you are. The only requirement for AA membership is a desire to stop drinking (and many of us were not very wholehearted about that when we first approached AA).
What can I expect at my first A.A. meeting?
An AA meeting may take one of several forms, but at any meeting you will find alcoholics talking about what drinking did to their lives and personalities, what actions they took to help themselves, and how they are living their lives today.
Is there a cost to attend A.A. meetings?
There are no dues or fees for AA membership. An AA group will usually have a collection during the meeting to cover expenses, such as rent, coffee etc. Members are free to contribute as much or as little as they wish.
Do I have to be religious?
No. A.A. South Africa is not affiliated with any religious or other organization.
What if I see someone I know?
They will be there for the same reason you are. AA does not disclose your identity even to outsiders or even others inside our fellowship. You retain as much anonymity as you wish. That is one of the reasons we call ourselves Alcoholics Anonymous.
Are there online meetings available in SA?
Whether you are unable to attend a meeting because there is no A.A. meeting in your vicinity, you are housebound because of illness or are working overseas, there are ways of attending meetings online as well as receiving the Loners Correspondence Service.
Can family and friends attend meetings with me?
Family members or close friends are welcome at “open” AA meetings.
What languages are the meetings conducted in?
Meetings are generally held in English. However, given South Africa’s rich linguistic diversity, it is highly possible that meetings may also be conducted in other languages depending on the community and location. Please note that we may not always be aware of such meetings, as they are often organized informally or within specific local contexts
How can I get help right now?
Look for Alcoholics Anonymous in your local telephone directory. These telephones are answered by AA volunteers who will be happy to answer your questions, or put you in touch with those who can. If there is no AA telephone service close to you, write or phone AA’s General Service Office. To get in touch with the telephone service of A.A. in Port Elizabeth contact us.