What is Alcoholics Anonymous?
A.A. is a fellowship of people who share experience, strength, and hope to recover from alcoholism—one day at a time. No fees. No sign‑ups. Just people helping people.
What A.A. is (and isn’t)
A.A. is a worldwide fellowship. We’re not a clinic, church, or government program. We simply share what worked for us to live alcohol‑free, starting with today.
What A.A. is
- Fellowship: People with lived experience supporting each other.
- Open to all: If you want to stop drinking, you’re welcome.
- Free: No dues or fees—self‑supported by our members.
- Anonymous: Your name and story stay yours.
- Local & global: Meetings here on island and around the world.
What A.A. isn’t
- Not medical care: We don’t diagnose or provide treatment.
- Not aligned: No affiliation with outside organizations or politics.
- Not religious: Spiritual as you understand it—beliefs are personal.
- Not intrusive: No sign‑ups, no tracking, no pressure.
Self‑check: Is A.A. for me?
No one can tell you if you’re alcoholic. These questions help you reflect, island‑style—honestly, gently, and without judgment.
- Drinking patterns: Do you drink more or longer than you plan?
- Promises: Have you sworn to cut back and couldn’t?
- Impact: Has drinking hurt your work, studies, or family?
- Morning after: Do you need a drink to steady yourself?
- Memory: Do you forget parts of a night after drinking?
- Tolerance: Do you need more alcohol for the same effect?
- Relationships: Has drinking caused arguments or distance?
- Solitude: Do you hide your drinking from others?
- Health: Has a doctor warned you about alcohol?
- Finances: Does alcohol take money you planned for essentials?
- Control: Do you struggle to stop once you start?
- Hope: Do you want help to live alcohol‑free, one day at a time?
If several of these fit, A.A. might be for you. You choose your pace. We’re here when you’re ready.
How meetings work in Guam
Walk in, sit down, breathe. You’ll hear stories of recovery. Share if you want. Listen if you need. No one will single you out.
First time
- Arrive: Come a few minutes early if you like; greeters can help.
- Format: Some meetings are speaker, some are discussion—both are welcoming.
- Respect: We don’t interrupt; we let each person share.
Common questions
- Cost: Free. A basket may be passed—give if you wish.
- Religion: A.A. isn’t religious; your beliefs are your own.
- Privacy: We protect your anonymity. No photos, no roll call.
Island touches
- Community: Fellowship might include local greetings and hospitality.
- Language: Most meetings are in English; some may include Chamorro phrases.
- Service: Members pitch in—chairs, coffee, and care for the space.
Guam voices (anonymous)
I walked in scared and walked out with hope. I didn’t have to do it alone.
A.A. gave me tools and people who understand. One day at a time is enough.
Anonymity and how we keep you safe
Your privacy
- No lists: We don’t take attendance or collect names.
- No photos: We avoid photography at meetings.
- Share choice: You choose what to share, if anything.
Our principles
- Traditions: We put unity and recovery first.
- Non‑affiliation: No endorsements, no politics.
- Self‑support: We pay our own way—freely given.
Need help right now?
If you’re in immediate danger, please contact local emergency services. If you want to talk to someone from A.A., reach out using the options below.
Talk to someone
- Call: A.A. Guam contact +1 (671)646-SAFE (7233).
- Email: Send a note—someone will reply guamna671@gmail.com
- Meeting: You can go straight to any open meeting.
If you’re new
- Start simple: Pick one meeting; arrive a little early.
- Keep it today: One day at a time—just today.
- Stay connected: Exchange numbers if you wish for support.