Support Groups: Find Community in Recovery
What a Support Group Is
A support group is a regular meeting where people share experiences, practice coping skills, and encourage each other. It’s not therapy or medical care. Many people use groups to stay accountable between appointments and to feel less alone.
Who Support Groups May Help
You had a slip and need a judgment-free place to reset
Types of Groups: Choose What Fits You
- 12-Step (AA, NA, etc.): Peer-led; step work, sponsors, spirituality varies by meeting
- SMART Recovery: Science-based skills (CBT/REBT), goal setting, tools for urges
- Refuge Recovery: Mindfulness/meditation, Buddhist-inspired principles
- Celebrate Recovery: Christian-based, mixed “hurts, habits, hang-ups”
- Moderation-Focused (varies by area): Harm-reduction approaches for alcohol
- Medication-Friendly: Welcome people using FDA-approved meds for alcohol or opioid use disorders
- Dual-Recovery Groups: for co-occurring mental health and substance use
- Family Groups: Al-Anon/Nar-Anon, parent/caregiver groups
- Online Communities: Video meetings and forums (follow privacy rules)
Groups differ in culture and rules. If one isn’t a fit, try another based on your goals. Consistency matters more than the label.
What to Expect at a Meeting
- A brief welcome and readings or topic
- Sharing time (you can pass if you’d rather listen)
- Skills or step discussion; sometimes, a short meditation
- Newcomer information and ways to connect after the meeting
- “Anonymity” reminder about what’s shared stays in the room
Your First Meeting (Quick Checklist)
- Arrive a few minutes early (or log in early to test audio/video)
- Bring water and a small notebook
- Plan a simple intro: “I’m [first name]. I’m here to listen and learn.”
- You can skip sharing if you prefer, as listening is participating
- Afterward, grab newcomer info or say hello to a leader
Meeting Etiquette
- One person speaks at a time; keep shares brief
- Avoid graphic details that could trigger others
- No cross-talk unless the group allows feedback time
- Cameras on for virtual groups if requested; no recording
- Respect identities, pronouns, and confidentiality
Choosing the Right Group
- Fit: Topic, format, and vibe feel supportive
- Location/Access: Near home or easy online schedule
- Medication-friendly: If you use MOUD or other prescribed meds, choose groups that welcome it
- Dual Diagnosis Aware: Comfort discussing mental health and safety planning
- Safety: Clear rules; leaders respond to concerns
How Groups Fit With Treatment
Support groups add to your plan, complementing therapy, medical care, or medication. Many people combine weekly therapy, medication management (when appropriate), and 2–3 meetings per week, then taper as life gets steadier.
If a Group Isn’t a Fit
It’s okay to try something else. Ask for other recommendations, test a different format (women-only, LGBTQ+-affirming, faith-based, secular, trauma-aware), or switch times. The best group is the one you’ll return to.
FAQs
Are groups free?
Most are free or donation-based. Some workshops or retreats have fees.
Do I have to speak?
No. Listening is okay. Share when you’re ready.
Can I attend if I had a slip?
Yes. Most groups welcome you as you are.
Are online groups effective?
Many people find them helpful and easier to attend. Follow privacy rules and join from a private space.
Will groups pressure me about medication?
Choose medication-friendly spaces if you use FDA-approved medications. Your treatment decisions should be made with a prescriber.
Helpful Resources
In Crisis? Get Immediate Help.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing a medical emergency, call 911. You can also contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support 24/7 at 988.
Additional Resources (Optional but Helpful):
- SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741