Published: 01/22/2024

What Happens at an NA Meeting?

Most people attend their first Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meeting and feel nervous, anxious, and unsure of what to expect. While it may feel overwhelming initially, especially if you’re not sure if this is the right place for you, it may be helpful to know that every single person in that meeting has taken the same first step that you are. That’s the great thing about NA and other self-help groups: they are welcoming and know exactly what it’s like to be in your shoes. This guide provides an overview of what to expect at your first NA meeting, the format, readings, and frequently asked questions.

What is NA?

Narcotics Anonymous is a 12-step program that arose out of the AA program which was founded in the 1940s. According to the NA archives, the first NA meetings were held in California in the 1950s and it is now a global organization. The first NA literature, called the Basic Text, was produced in 1983, creating a clear delineation between the two fellowships and programs of recovery.

According to the Recovery Research Institute, NA is one of several non-clinical pathways of recovery, falling into the peer-based recovery support category. Also known as mutual-aid, peer support consists of non-professional organizations that support one another by:

• Share lived experiences of addiction and recovery
• Engage in social support
• Provide a community of people in recovery who are facing similar challenges
• Help to develop recovery skills to achieve and sustain recovery from addiction

What to expect at an NA meeting

Like other 12-step fellowships, NA follows the 12-step program of recovery which involves regular meetings, service, and unity. You can expect meetings to follow a specific format that will include:

• How to find a meeting: Members (and newcomers) meeting at a specific location and time. You can find an online list of globally available meetings here. 
• Opening the meeting: Some meetings sit in a circle and others may sit in rows with a table of speakers at the top
• Readings: The chairperson will open the meeting, explain the format, and ask other members to read specific literature, including: 
  • Who is An Addict? – which explains how NA defines someone with substance use disorder 
  • • What is the NA Program? – describes the core aspects of the NA program

     

    • Why Are We Here? – the reason members attend NA

     

  • How It Works – an explanation of the NA 12 Steps
  • Just for Today – usually read towards the end of the meeting, this reading reminds members to focus on the 24 hours before them
  • We Do Recover – also read at the close of the meeting, this reading provides hope that recovery is possible 

Typically, meetings will involve a kind of member sharing. This could be what is called a “speaker” meeting, in which a member is invited to share their experience of addiction and recovery; a discussion meeting in which everyone has an opportunity to share; a newcomer meeting where the focus is on other members sharing what their experience was like and how they found recovery. Before the end of the meeting members may celebrate “clean time” in which they receive a key tag for their days, months, and years in recovery. In some meetings, members may hold hands to recite a spiritual share or reading, and/or hug each other at the end of the meeting. 

If you are new to an NA meeting, you may be asked to introduce yourself by your first name. You may be greeted with a hug and given a white key tag. Some more established members may also introduce themselves and ask for your telephone number, or offer theirs so that you have the contact information of another person in recovery. This can be helpful to arrange to meet for coffee and go to a meeting together, which some members find easier initially.

FAQ

This section answers some common questions about Narcotics Anonymous meetings.

How long is an NA meeting?

NA meetings are typically held for 60 minutes. Although some run for 90 minutes. You can expect members to get to the meeting at least 20 minutes before it starts to set up chairs, make coffee, and put out chairs. This might be a good time to attend if you’re new so that you can introduce yourself before it gets busy.

Are NA meetings free?

Yes. Like other 12-step fellowships, NA is funded through member donations. You’ll see a basket being passed around towards the end of the meeting for the 7th tradition, which states that groups should be fully self-supporting, declining outside contributions. Member donations go towards rent, literature, key tags, coffee, and other miscellaneous items that are needed for the meeting.

Are meetings open?

It depends. Some meetings are listed as “open” meaning anyone can attend and others are “closed” meaning only members can attend. If you are unsure, refer to the meeting schedule. 

CTA: If you or someone you love is experiencing a substance use disorder, help is available. Call 866-968-5444Who Answers? today to learn about your treatment options.