Introduction to Families Anonymous
Families Anonymous (FA) is a 12-step program for anonymous families and friends of those suffering from substance abuse and addictive behavioral issues, with an emphasis on member anonymity.
FA provides a safe space for family members and friends to share their experiences and receive support in managing their loved one’s addiction. The organization was founded by parents whose children faced substance abuse issues.
The organization is centered on the twelve steps, similar to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), but with a focus on the distinct goals of supporting families affected by various types of addictive behaviors.
FA is a fellowship for the family and friends of those individuals, where members can share information and participate in discussions to help each other cope with the destructive forces of addiction.
The organization welcomes all family members and friends of those struggling with drug, alcohol, or related behavioral issues. The emotional strain and challenges of dealing with a loved one’s addiction are significant, and FA aims to provide a supportive community to navigate these difficulties.
About the Organization
Families Anonymous (FA) is a 12-step fellowship designed for family members and friends of individuals struggling with substance abuse, addiction, and related behavioral issues. The organization aims to provide a safe space for families to share their experiences, receive support, and learn how to cope with the challenges of loving someone with an addiction. FA meetings are anonymous, free, and open to anyone concerned about a loved one’s addiction.
The organization was founded in 1971 by a group of parents in Southern California who were struggling to manage their children’s substance abuse. Today, FA has expanded globally, with meetings held in various locations, including online meetings, to accommodate individuals who cannot attend in-person meetings. The suggested meeting format is designed to provide a structured approach to discussions, ensuring that all attendees feel comfortable sharing their experiences and receiving support.
FA literature, including the Serenity Prayer, is an essential part of the meetings, providing guidance and focused statements about healing. The organization’s primary goal is to support members in their recovery journey, helping them to understand the destructive forces of addiction and how to overcome them. By attending FA meetings, family members and friends can learn how to protect themselves and their loved ones from the negative effects of addiction.
The organization is a non-profit, community-based support group that relies on donations to continue providing its services. FA is not affiliated with any specific treatment center or organization, ensuring that its meetings remain anonymous and focused on supporting members. The fellowship is open to anyone affected by a loved one’s addiction, regardless of their background or circumstances.
To join Families Anonymous, individuals can attend meetings in person or online, or contact their local chapter for more information. The organization’s website provides additional information, literature resources, and a meeting finder tool to help individuals locate meetings in their area. By joining FA, family members and friends can find a supportive community that understands their struggles and is committed to helping them navigate the challenges of loving someone with an addiction.
In the UK, FA has a strong presence, with meetings held in various locations. The organization also has a page dedicated to providing information and resources for individuals struggling with addiction and related behavioral issues. By visiting the FA website, individuals can learn more about the organization, its meetings, and how to get involved. Whether you are struggling to manage a loved one’s addiction or simply need support, FA is a fellowship that can provide a safe space for you to share your experiences and receive the help you need.
Meeting Options
Families Anonymous meetings are available in various formats, including face-to-face, phone, online, and email meetings. Meetings are typically held once a week. FA meetings are held in multiple locations across the US and worldwide, providing easy access for family members and friends to attend. Online meetings are a great option for those who cannot attend in-person meetings, and they offer a similar structure to traditional meetings. During meetings, baskets are passed around for voluntary donations, similar to practices in many churches. Phone meetings are also available, providing an additional option for those who prefer to participate remotely. Email meetings offer a flexible way for members to share their experiences and receive support at their own pace.
Finding Support
To find support, family members and friends can join Families Anonymous meetings, which are free to attend, although donations are welcome.
FA meetings are anonymous, and members are encouraged to respect each other’s confidentiality.
The organization provides literature resources, including a journal, to help members understand the twelve steps and manage their loved one’s addiction. Reading FA literature during discussions helps guide the conversation and ensures a focused environment.
Family members and friends can visit the FA website to find nearby meetings or access online meetings. Leaders refer to the suggested meeting format for guidance, allowing flexibility to adapt the meetings to best support attendees.
FA is a community-centered organization that protects the security and anonymity of its members.
Benefits of the Organization
- Families Anonymous offers numerous benefits, including a sense of community and connection with others who are going through similar experiences. The organization also supports relatives of individuals struggling with addiction.
- FA helps family members and friends understand the addictive behavior of their loved one and develop coping strategies to manage their own emotions.
- The organization provides a safe space for members to share their feelings and receive support from others who have experienced similar challenges.
- FA meetings follow a similar structure to other 12-step programs, including the use of the Serenity Prayer.
- The organization is focused on supporting members in their recovery journey and helping them find peace and serenity. Welcome to Families Anonymous, a 12-step program designed to support family members and friends of individuals struggling with substance use and behavioral issues.
Meeting Formats and Anonymity
- FA meetings are led by members who share their personal experiences and insights, providing a supportive environment for all attendees.
- The organization respects the anonymity of its members and encourages them to maintain confidentiality.
- Meetings are centered on the twelve steps, and members are encouraged to participate in discussions and share their experiences.
- FA literature is available to help members understand the program and its principles.
- The organization is a 12-step fellowship that welcomes all family members and friends of those struggling with addiction.
Online Participation
- Online meetings are a great way for family members and friends to participate in FA meetings remotely.
- FA offers online meetings, which follow a similar structure to traditional meetings, including the use of a suggested meeting format.
- Online meetings provide an additional option for those who cannot attend in-person meetings, and they offer a safe space for members to share their experiences and receive support.
- The organization provides information on how to access online meetings and find a meeting in your area.
- FA is a community-centered organization that welcomes all family members and friends of those struggling with addiction.