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Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction or chemical dependency, then Narcotic Anonymous may be the right fit for you.
Narcotics Anonymous, also known as NA groups, is a recovery program like Alcoholics Anonymous, except it's geared towards people with other drug dependencies besides alcohol.
At Narcotics Anonymous, there is room for everyone with their multicultural and bilingual membership and a vision that:
"Every addict has a chance to experience the message of NA, in their language and culture, and find an opportunity for a new way of life."
Narcotics Anonymous has over 67,000 meetings in 139 countries with an ever-growing population. Despite being relatively low compared to Alcoholics Anonymous, NA meetings have significantly grown over the years.
All About Narcotics Anonymous
NA's View on Addiction
N/A believes that the addict becomes powerless to their addiction. They also believe that addiction is a disease, and the addicts' power alone is not enough to adequately break free of this disease. N/A believes the addict will continue to use until they have nothing left. Only when they come to terms with the severity of their circumstances, turn their will over to God, and engage in a program like the 12 steps can they truly overcome the power of addiction.
The 12-Step Program:
Much like Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous uses the Big Book, which comprises the 12 steps.
Someone who completes the 12 steps is encouraged to start at the beginning again once they end because addiction is believed to be a lifelong battle.
Medically Reviewed:
Rolling Hills Recovery Center
Expert Contributor
Dr. Williams presently serves on the board of Directors for two non-profit service organizations. He holds a Master’s degree in Human Services from Lincoln University, Philadelphia, Pa, and a Ph.D. with a concentration in Clinical Psychology from Union Institute and University. In Cincinnati, Ohio. He is licensed to practice addictions counseling in both New Jersey and Connecticut and has a pending application as a practicing Psychologist in New Jersey.
Meeting and Memberships
There are no qualifications to attend a meeting besides the desire to change your life. All who believe they have an addiction are welcome to participate in any session.
Opened meetings: Opened meetings are for the addict and friends and families of the addict who chooses to participate for support.
Closed Meetings: Closed meetings are just for those who are addicted or think they are addicted.
You can always double-check with the person in charge of the meetings to see if they are closed or opened.
Meetings are usually once a week and are hosted in various places. City centers, churches, parks, outdoor areas, and clinics are all popular places where these meetings are held.
Check your local listings for areas near you. NA.org.
Additional Information
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NA meetings are not an in-patient or extended stay program.
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N/A is not a Detox facility or Medication Maintenance Resource
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NA is a Spiritual based 12- step program intended to help people recover from drugs and alcohol.
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Most programs are weekly, lasting approximately one hour long.
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Family friends are welcome to most meetings (except for the closed sessions).
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NA was founded in 1947 as one of its oldest, most extensive programs.
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NA started as an alternative to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA groups) for people struggling with drugs other than alcohol.
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You will never find any literature in NA referring to drug use but only addiction. NA believes addiction is a disease by which drug use is only one of the symptoms.
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In NA, addiction is considered a life-long battle by which one has to maintain a daily fight for continued sobriety.
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NA teaches powerlessness to addiction and its traps. Only when a person loses everything will they realize the magnitude of their circumstances.
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NA believes the 12 steps can be an effective way to overcome addiction if appropriately applied.
A Chance At a New Life
Narcotics Anonymous has helped thousands of people over the years, and those numbers are still rising. Because of the many different people from all backgrounds and cultures that have come through the program, finding a program that fits your experience should be relatively easy.
Keep an open mind during your first couple of meetings; it may take some time to adjust to the new atmosphere if it is your first time.
Everyone has a story; find an NA meeting near you, tell your account, and allow yourself the chance of a happy, healthy, sober life.
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