Alcoholics anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous (pronunciation: al·co·hol·ics a·non·y·mous) is an international fellowship of individuals who have had a drinking problem. It is nonprofessional, self-supporting, multiracial, apolitical, and available almost everywhere. There are no age or education requirements. Membership is open to anyone who wants to do something about their drinking problem.

Etymology

The term "Alcoholics Anonymous" originated from the title of the first book written about the organization. The book, also named "Alcoholics Anonymous", was published in 1939 by Bill W. and Dr. Bob S., the co-founders of AA. The name was chosen to emphasize the confidential nature of the group and the focus on alcoholism.

Related Terms

Twelve Steps: A group of principles, spiritual in their nature, which, if practiced as a way of life, can expel the obsession to drink and enable the sufferer to become happily and usefully whole.
Twelve Traditions: The Twelve Traditions are a set of guiding principles for the organization of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Sobriety: The state of being sober, often used to refer to the total abstinence from alcohol.
Big Book: The basic text for Alcoholics Anonymous, and the book from which the organization got its name.
Sponsor: An experienced member of AA who offers guidance and support to a newer member, often helping them work through the Twelve Steps.