Am I An Addict?
What Is NA?
Narcotics Anonymous is a non-profit fellowship of people for whom drugs had become a major problem. We meet because we found our lives were unmanageable due to addiction, and we found recovery through working the Twelve Steps together.
- There are no dues or fees — just a shared desire to stop using.
- You do not have to be clean to come to your first meeting, but it’s suggested you come back, and try to come back clean.
- Meetings are not therapy and we are not professionals— simply, we are addicts helping each other stay clean.
- NA is a spiritual, not religious program.
- NA meetings are often held in churches or other community facilities because these spaces are affordable, available, or convenient. NA is not affiliated with or connected to any other organization or institution.
What to Expect at Your First NA Meeting
NA meetings are places where addicts come together to help one another stay clean. Meetings can take many different formats, such as topic discussions, speaker meetings, or readings from NA literature, and they provide members with time to share their experience, strength, and hope in recovery.
Before the Meeting
- You don’t need to prepare anything before attending your first NA meeting – just show up.
- Arrive a few minutes early if you can. NA members will say hello and may give you a hug.
During the Meeting
- Members share from personal experience — there is no counseling, discussion, or advice-giving.
- Expect to hear addicts of many different backgrounds talking about how they stay clean “just for today.”
- Sharing at a meeting is always optional – newcomers are encouraged to listen.
- We are not interested in what substances were used; alcohol is a drug, and the only requirement for membership is a desire to stop using.
- We respect anonymity, and what is shared in the meeting stays in the meeting.
- Meetings have no fees or dues – a collection basket is passed, but you are not obligated to donate.
After the Meeting
- After the meeting, members often stay to talk and connect.
- You are encouraged to ask questions, meet other members, and get phone numbers for support.
Helpful Tips for Newcomers
- Keep Coming Back. Recovery happens one day at a time and grows through continued attendance.
- It’s strongly suggested to attend 90 meetings in 90 days.
- Pick up a meeting schedule and free literature (IPs – Information Pamphlets). NA books are available at cost.
Quick Terms for Newcomers
| Addict | The term we use for ourselves — focused on the disease of addiction, not what substance we used. |
| Closed Meeting | For addicts or those who think they might have a drug problem. |
| Open Meeting | Anyone — including non-addicts — welcome to attend. |
| Sponsor | A member who guides you through the NA steps and helps you in your recovery. |
| Sharing | Speaking about your experience with addiction and recovery. |
Where to Find More Information
- IP #16 — For the Newcomer: foundational explanation of the basics of NA for first-time attendees.
- IP #1 — Who, What, How, and Why: outlines the recovery journey and NA’s purpose.
- IP #29 — An Introduction to NA Meetings: a guide for what happens in NA meetings and how to make the most of them.
(These pamphlets are available in PDF form through NA World Services at http://www.na.org or at local meetings.)
You’re Welcome Here
No matter where you’ve been or what your history with drugs looks like, you are welcome in NA. All we ask is your desire to stop using — that’s the only requirement for membership.
We look forward to seeing you — and we hope you’ll keep coming back.