Local Meeting Format
What to Expect in a LifeRing Meeting
A LifeRing meeting is a welcoming space for individuals with a shared goal: getting and staying sober. An open discussion is hosted by a convenor, a person in recovery themselves. While many meetings are smaller and follow a "How was your week?" format, some are larger and others focus on specific topics.
This open discussion is your chance to share what's been happening in your recovery journey and what lies ahead. The focus is on your current life, not dwelling on the past. The only requirement for attending is a desire to be sober. While you don't have to use labels for yourself such as "alcoholic" or "addict," you need to be sober to speak during the meeting.
The beauty of a LifeRing meeting is its open, relaxed atmosphere. Think of it like a living room filled with sober friends having a genuine, free-flowing conversation. You're encouraged to ask questions, offer comments, and share feedback throughout the meeting. If something comes to mind, say it! Laughter is a common, joyful sound here.
Of course, there are a few simple guidelines to keep things supportive. This means no extended "war stories" about past substance use, no aggressive confrontation or unsolicited advice. Please leave religion, politics, and negativity towards other recovery approaches at the door. We keep it civil and focused on the work of recovery.
Meetings typically wrap up with a well-deserved round of applause for everyone's sobriety. What's shared in the meeting stays in the meeting; confidentiality is key. You can tell friends you attended, but never disclose who else was there or what they said.
Joining a LifeRing meeting is free. While a basket may be passed to cover expenses, contributions are completely voluntary. Need proof of attendance for court, treatment program, or medical team? LifeRing is widely recognized and your convenor can provide you with verification.
Beyond face-to-face gatherings, LifeRing offers a robust array of online support options, including email groups, one-to-one "E-Pals" for sobriety support, and the LifeRing Delphi Forum. And if you're looking to give back, know that any sober individual can become a LifeRing convenor in just a few months – no professional training required, just a desire to help others on their path to recovery.
For more details about the meeting format, read How Was Your Week?, the LifeRing convenor's handbook, and the popular introduction to LifeRing Empowering Your Sober Self, both available in the LifeRing Bookstore.