Introduction to Emotional Healing
Emotions Anonymous (EA) is a 12-Step program derived from and used with permission from Alcoholics Anonymous, designed to support individuals with emotional difficulties. Unlike other groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Al-Anon, EA specifically addresses emotional issues rather than substance abuse. The familiarity and structure provided by twelve-step groups like EA can be particularly beneficial for those dealing with various emotional and psychological challenges, aiming to achieve emotional sobriety.
The EA program is beneficial for individuals seeking to improve their emotional well-being and mental health, particularly those experiencing a life-threatening mental health crisis. Emotional support is a key component of the EA program, helping members navigate their challenges.
Emotions Anonymous International (EAI) is a nonprofit organization that facilitates EA meetings and provides resources for emotional well-being, offering services to members worldwide.
EA members come from diverse backgrounds and are united in their desire to achieve emotional sobriety through the twelve-step program.

Understanding Emotional Challenges
Emotional difficulties can be overwhelming and may lead to a mental health crisis, making it essential to seek emotional support from organizations like Emotions Anonymous.
The EA program acknowledges that emotional illness can be as threatening as any other health crisis, and its members work together to achieve emotional well-being. The structure and familiarity provided by twelve-step groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Emotions Anonymous (EA), can be particularly beneficial for individuals seeking change. Emotional sobriety is a key aspect of this journey, helping individuals maintain balance and stability.
Individuals with emotional difficulties can find solace in the anonymous program, which provides a safe space to share experiences and work towards recovery.
EA’s in-person meetings and online support groups offer a sense of community and connection for those struggling with emotional challenges.
Benefits of Emotions Anonymous International
The EA program offers a structured approach to emotional healing, with a focus on the 12-Step program and its foundational components. Unlike other groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Al-Anon, which address specific addictions, EA adapts these principles to meet the unique needs of individuals dealing with emotional issues, providing essential emotional support.
Emotions Anonymous International (EAI) provides a central location for support group meeting information, making it easier for individuals to find and join EA groups. The anonymous program ensures confidentiality, allowing members to feel comfortable sharing their experiences and working towards emotional sobriety.
EA materials are copyrighted, and the organization relies on financial support to continue offering services to members worldwide.
How Emotions Anonymous Works
The EA program is based on the methodologies used by twelve-step groups, with adaptations focusing on emotional well-being, mental health, and providing emotional support.
EA members work through the steps with the support of their peers, using materials like pamphlets and workbooks sold by EAI.
The program’s foundational components include the 12 Steps, 12 Traditions, and 12 Helpful Concepts, which provide a framework for emotional healing. Emotional sobriety is also a key focus, helping members maintain emotional balance.
Trained crisis resources are available for individuals experiencing a life-threatening mental health crisis, and EA recommends confirming the current meeting schedule before attending.
Finding Support for EA Members
Emotions Anonymous has a significant presence in the United States and worldwide, with over 600 active groups, including online meetings. While EA adopts principles from other groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Al-Anon, it specifically addresses the needs of members dealing with emotional issues, providing crucial emotional support, contrasting with the structured behaviors present in programs for other addictions.
A Google map overview of EA’s meetings can be found on the organization’s website, making it easy to locate a support group near you.
EA’s virtual platform allows members to connect with others from the comfort of their own homes, particularly useful for those who cannot attend in-person meetings. Emotional sobriety is also a key focus, helping members maintain emotional balance and well-being.
The organization’s website provides a wealth of information on emotional difficulties, mental health, and the EA program, offering a valuable resource for those seeking support.
Building a Support Network
Emotions Anonymous (EA) is a peer-to-peer support program that helps individuals build a strong support network to manage their emotional difficulties. The program offers emotional support and is based on the 12 Steps, 12 Traditions, 12 Helpful Concepts, 12 Just for Todays, 12 Promises, 12 Slogans, and 12 Principles, derived from and used with permission from Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). EA members come from diverse backgrounds and are united by their desire to improve their emotional well-being. By participating in EA’s in-person meetings or online support groups, individuals can connect with others who understand their struggles and work together towards recovery. Emotions Anonymous International (EAI) provides a central location for support group meeting information, making it easier for individuals to find and join a group that suits their needs. Achieving emotional sobriety is a key goal for many participants, helping them maintain balance and stability in their lives.
Preparing for Your First Meeting
Before attending your first EA meeting, it’s essential to understand the structure and familiarity provided by twelve-step groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Emotions Anonymous (EA), and the 12-Step model. These groups offer emotional support to help members navigate their recovery journey.
EA members are encouraged to read the organization’s literature, including pamphlets and workbooks, to gain a deeper understanding of the program. Emotional sobriety is also a key focus, helping members maintain emotional balance and well-being.
It’s recommended to arrive early to your first meeting, allowing time to introduce yourself and get settled before the meeting begins.
Remember that EA is an anonymous program, and members are not required to share personal details or last names at meetings.
The Twelve Step Program
The EA program’s 12-Step model, based on methodologies used by twelve-step groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Emotions Anonymous (EA), is designed to support individuals with emotional difficulties in their efforts to live more manageable lives. The program also emphasizes the importance of emotional support from peers and mentors.
The 12 Steps provide a framework for emotional healing, with a focus on self-reflection, personal growth, and spiritual development. Emotional sobriety is another crucial aspect of the journey, helping individuals maintain balance and stability.
EA members work through the steps with the support of their peers, using the organization’s literature and materials as a guide.
The 12-Step program is a key component of the EA program, offering a structured approach to emotional healing and recovery.
Working Through the Steps
Working through the 12 Steps requires commitment, dedication, and a willingness to confront emotional difficulties. The framework provided by twelve-step groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Emotions Anonymous (EA), offers a structured approach to self-help and recovery, which can be particularly beneficial for those dealing with various emotional and psychological challenges, providing much-needed emotional support.
EA members are encouraged to share their experiences and insights with others, providing a sense of community and support. The organization’s literature and materials offer guidance and support as members work through the steps, providing a valuable resource for emotional healing.
It’s essential to remember that the 12-Step program is a journey, and progress may be slow, but with persistence and support, emotional sobriety is achievable.
Online Support
Emotions Anonymous offers online support groups, which provide a safe and confidential space for individuals to share their experiences and work towards emotional sobriety. These online meetings are facilitated by trained EA members who are knowledgeable about the program’s foundational components, including the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions, and offer emotional support. EAI’s online platform allows individuals to access support from anywhere in the world, at any time, making it an ideal option for those who cannot attend in-person meetings. Additionally, EAI sells pamphlets, workbooks, and books that provide valuable resources and guidance for individuals seeking to improve their emotional well-being. For those experiencing a life-threatening mental health crisis, EAI recommends considering calling or texting a crisis hotline or warmline, such as the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, for immediate support. Achieving emotional sobriety is a key goal for many participants in these programs.
Phone Support: Crisis Hotline or Warmline
- Emotions Anonymous offers phone support for individuals in crisis, providing a lifeline for those experiencing a life-threatening mental health crisis. This service also offers emotional support, helping individuals navigate their feelings during challenging times.
- The organization’s crisis hotline or warmline is staffed by trained crisis resources, offering support and guidance for those in need. Emotional sobriety is also a key focus, helping individuals maintain balance and stability.
- Phone support is available for EA members and non-members alike, providing a sense of connection and support during difficult times.
- EA’s phone support is confidential and anonymous, ensuring that individuals feel comfortable reaching out for help.
Accessibility
Emotions Anonymous (EA) prioritizes accessibility to ensure that individuals with emotional difficulties can easily find and participate in support groups. The organization offers a range of services, including online and in-person meetings, to cater to different needs and preferences. EA’s website provides a central location for support group meeting information, allowing individuals to search for meetings in their area or online. Additionally, EA materials are available in various formats, including pamphlets, workbooks, and books, which can be purchased through the organization’s website or at local meetings.
For those experiencing a life-threatening mental health crisis, EA recommends considering calling or texting the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, which provides free and confidential support 24/7. This lifeline is staffed by trained crisis resources who are equipped to offer immediate assistance and guidance.
EA’s virtual platform, which was established when COVID-19 struck, continues to offer services to members worldwide, ensuring that individuals can access support from the comfort of their own homes. This flexibility allows EA to reach a broader audience, providing essential support to those who may not be able to attend in-person meetings.
Confidentiality
- Emotions Anonymous is an anonymous program, ensuring confidentiality for all members. The program also offers emotional support, creating a safe space for individuals to share their feelings.
- EA members are not required to share personal details or last names at meetings, providing a sense of security and comfort. The organization’s online support groups and virtual platform are also confidential, ensuring that members feel comfortable sharing their experiences and working towards emotional sobriety.
- EA’s confidentiality policy is in place to protect the privacy and anonymity of its members, providing a safe and supportive environment for emotional healing.
Reviews and Testimonials
- Emotions Anonymous has received positive reviews and testimonials from its members, who appreciate the organization’s supportive community and structured approach to emotional healing. Members often highlight the emotional support they receive from the community.
- EA members have reported significant improvements in their emotional well-being and mental health, thanks to the organization’s 12-Step program and supportive community. Many members also emphasize the importance of achieving emotional sobriety through the program.
- The organization’s literature and materials have been praised for their helpfulness and insight, providing a valuable resource for emotional healing and recovery.
- EA’s anonymous program has been praised for its confidentiality and sense of security, allowing members to feel comfortable sharing their experiences and working towards emotional sobriety.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Emotions Anonymous (EA) is a vital organization that provides a supportive community for individuals struggling with emotional difficulties. With its twelve-step program, EA offers a structured approach to recovery, helping individuals to manage their emotions and improve their mental health. The organization’s commitment to accessibility, anonymity, and confidentiality ensures that members feel safe and supported throughout their journey.
As a non-profit organization, EA relies on financial support to continue offering services to members worldwide. By making a gift to EA, individuals can help the organization to continue providing essential resources and support to those in need. With its global presence, EA is an excellent resource for anyone seeking to improve their emotional well-being, and its services are available to anyone, regardless of their background or location.
Whether you are struggling with emotional difficulties or know someone who is, Emotions Anonymous is an organization that can provide valuable support and guidance. Consider reaching out to EA or supporting their mission to help individuals achieve emotional sobriety and well-being.