Al-Anon Phone Meetings: Help Is Only a Phone Call Away

Al-Anon phone meetings are intended to complement in-person meetings that can take place over the phone or online. These meetings are all supposed to follow the same rules regarding confidentiality and privacy of all AA-affiliated sessions. They are also supposed to be centered on the 12-Step philosophy. Members can join an Al-Anon meeting by calling a specific phone number or joining a Zoom meeting found on the group’s website.

What are Al-Anon Phone Meetings?

AA phone gatherings are social support forums organized by an Al-Anon chapter that takes place over the phone or online, in some cases, that resemble an in-person AA meeting. The communities are organized by local chapters of the larger World Services Organization (the administrative arm of the group). They host the forums at specific times and with particular attendance requirements.

Al-Anon Phone Meetings last as long as they need to last, as there is no set time limit for any gathering. They often last up to an hour but can go longer or shorter depending on the members. Even though they take place over the phone or online, these types of gatherings can be just as effective as an in-person meeting.

How Do I Join Al-Anon Phone Meetings?

One can find Al-Anon phone meetings scheduled in the table below. It lists all the available times and locations across different time zones. A member can find a specific forum to contact, dial their number and join it if they adhere to the attendance requirements. Some of them are open to anyone, while others are reserved only for friends and family members affected by alcoholism.

Are Al-Anon Telephone Meetings Effective?

The support and non-judgemental aspect of the 12-Step program is the key to its success and longevity, although it takes time and effort. In a survey conducted by the organization of its members, 88% reported having improved mental health after working the program than before they started attending.

Whether the over-the-phone version is as impactful as the in-person variation is hard to say, there haven’t been any specific studies examining the differences. Still, there is much evidence that AA and the 12-Step program are very effective at maintaining sobriety. There is also a lot of evidence to show that regularly attending sessions (in various settings, whether in institutions, medical locations, etc.) leads to greater abstinence in the long run.

What is WSO ID and Why is It Important?

The WSO ID is an identification number given to each registered chapter of the World Services Organization to confirm its identity as a legitimate Al-Anon chapter. In addition, the ID is listed under every available phone meeting service to prove to anyone interested in joining that it is a legitimate Al-Anon Phone Meeting.

Benefits Of Al-Anon Over-the-Phone Gatherings

The benefits of attending an Al-Anon intergroup have the same as an in-person group session. Still, during the Covid-19 pandemic, they are a much more practical substitute to everyone gathering together. The phone groups can also provide even greater anonymity for those not ready to attend a session in person.

The over-the-phone sessions are also a suitable service for people who cannot, for whatever reason (no transportation, no money for gas, disability, etc.), attend a meeting in person but still need support from the group to deal with their alcoholism. People in rural areas can also reach Al-Anon Phone Meetings to get their help.

Al-Anon telephone gatherings are a convenient way to find the support and help of the AA community from anywhere in the world. There are chapters spread out across the country, and they are easy to find with the right resources.

Page Sources

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