i’m going to my first ever AA meeting tomorrow morning and whilst i’m feeling hopeful, i’m also feeling very anxious about it. i’m a very anxious person in general, but the thought of going somewhere i’m not familiar with and sitting around with a bunch of strangers talking about this kind of stuff makes me want to throw up from anxiety. i am also a very emotional person and am pretty much constantly holding back tears, so i’m nervous that i just won’t be able to stop crying. does anyone have any advice or support for someone going to their first meeting?
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thats the way to do it wish you well
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You sound and feel exactly like I did at my first meeting. And guess what, most everyone is scared and anxious going to their first AA meetings. That’s what makes the group so amazing. You will be welcomed and understood completely. Lots and lots of introverts go to AA.
This sober Kansas gal thinks you are courageous for taking a thoughtful step towards recovery, and away from the chains of addiction!
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I hope you go…give it a chance. It’s format isn’t for everyone but you’ll never know unless you experience it…you might find a real connection with others and walk away feeling stronger than ever. Also, don’t feel like you have to participate by speaking…just sit back and absorb from others who are going through similar struggles. Best of luck to you.
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you were absolutely right. the meeting was great. i’m so glad i went. thank you for your encouragement!
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thank you 
I can relate to feeling very anxious going to my first meeting. It wasn’t what I expected at all. Actually it was much better than what I pictured in my mind. Everyone was very kind and thoughtful.
Look for similarities rather than differences.
All the meetings I go to are solution based. If someone shares on a obstacle their facing, they always end their share with what they are doing (or going to do) to maintain their sobriety thru that challenging time. Learning to live life on life’s term from others has been very valuable to my journey.
Most importantly, enjoy your time in that meeting. If that’s sitting back and listening, that’s perfectly fine. You will be in a totally safe place for that one hour.
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it ended up being so warm and welcoming. it feels silly now that i was ever anxious about it. can’t wait to continue the meetings!
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i ended up going and i think it’s going to be something that will be helpful for me. i appreciate your comment about not feeling pressure to participate. i think that’s what was making me so anxious!
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it was COMPLETELY different than what i was expecting. i’m really happy i made the decision to go
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I’m happy you made the decision to go too. We never know what will help if we don’t try.
I’m looking forward to hearing more about your journey as time goes on .
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Don’t worry about being emotional. I have a small box of tissues in my backpack. When someone says something that hits me really hard, I know I’m going to tear up or my nose will start running. 
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carrying tissues is DEFINITELY something i will need to be doing lol
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I wish you luck tomorrow! I completely understand anxiety. Is there someone you can go with? Can you plan to do something with yourself or someone else afterwards to celebrate/decompress? Also, if your social anxiety about being in public is just too much for the meeting to be beneficial to you, virtual zoom/phone meetings are always an option! Heres a directory of them:
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No worries.
I get scared and anxious when i go. I always check myself at the door. I’d i have to be honest i check before i speak.
The first step is done. You walked in the door
Awesome
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