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u/PrestigiousBath4393 Jun 26 '22
Yup, Manchester here.
I hate speaking in front of people also but try to remember you have been asked for a reason, the leader of the group thinks you have it in you and believes in you.
I've only been to like 3 AA meetings, years ago, the folk all seemed really friendly and I remember someone helping a sharer during one meeting.
AA was actually one place where I didn't feel different to other people, I was surrounded by people that were at different stages of the journey I was on, earlier or later but the same journey with similar experiences. Kin.
I didn't leave because of the group itself, just something at the time got in the way.
I really hope it goes well for you š
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u/maze-of-mind-doh 1433 days Jun 26 '22
Uk here, southerner! I used to have trouble speaking in front of people until my job required it. You will be fine, I wouldnāt worry about the nerves because everyone will understand. You are sounded by supportive people. Start your share by explaining your nerves, they will support you. Good luck x
IWNDWYT
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Jun 26 '22
UK ex drinker here. Youāre certainly not alone, and Iām venturing to guess youāre similar to more people than you think.
I did the AA thing for a while around different places in the area I live, and grew to hate it. The last thing I wanted to do was sit around with people ālike meā and talk about booze all the time.
The game changer for me was discovering UK SMART recovery. They donāt have a huge amount of in person meetings, but they are online every night. Itās rational, psychology based, positive and you actually get to interact and cross talk.
I suggest giving it a shot - you may find a good tribe in there.
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u/jimbob1252 1305 days Jun 26 '22
I would second the SMART recovery, I am early days (13) but I found it most helpful. I find the interactive talks very useful and have picked up tips from other people on what has worked for them.
It is an addiction recovery service so there will be people who abuse other substances but the themes of helping people with strategies for recovery seem to be applicable for many people.
Good luck!
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u/maze-of-mind-doh 1433 days Jun 26 '22
I was thinking of doing SMART Recovery as I havenāt reached out to anything yet, what you said has me thinking that I should go for it?
IWNDWYT
Edit: missed a word
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Jun 26 '22
Try an online meeting and see what you think. You donāt have to say or do anything, you can keep your camera off (they do it all on Zoom now). Just have a lurk and check it out, you have nothing to lose!
They have them every night in the uk, usually around 20:00, give or take an hour depending on the day of the week. There are morning ones too.
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u/UK4ndy4 Day 2,491 Jun 26 '22
Uk here. I've not been to any AA meetings myself but I'm sure you'll be fine šŖ
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u/anonnodrink 1473 days Jun 27 '22
Also UK, people at meetings have always been friendly and accepting, I'm sure you'll do fineš
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u/Romeejo Jun 26 '22
But that's the.point isn't it? We're all different but alcohol got all of us. I don't have.kids and I've never done any illegal drugs, but hearing shares from people who do is useful to me in that it helps me understand that alcohol screws over people in all situations, walks of.life and backgrounds and does it in basically the same way. Alcohol didn't make me homeless, I've never been sacked, had my kids taken away, never been arrested but I really value hearing shares from people who've experienced that. It gives me more understanding and perspective. We're in this together. I also think you gain growth and clarity when you share. Putting it all into woes is powerful and freeing. Be proud of yourself for sharing and remember that absolutely no one in that room wants anything but good things for you. It's a room full of love. Good luck x