Helping Others

Carrying the message of recovery to others who still suffer is a basic ingredient that accounts for much of the success of both the 12 Step movement, and our individual recovery. The founders of the original 12 Step group, Alcoholics Anonymous, discovered that nothing would so much insure immunity from drinking as intensive work with another alcoholic. In Overeaters Anonymous we find that sharing our experience in recovery offers believable hope to those who may be in need. Sharing also reaffirms our commitment to recovery on an ongoing basis. By helping others, we find we are helping ourselves.

Service work and helping other recovering people covers a broad range of activities. We may start by simply sharing our story—our experience, strength and hope—at meetings. We may take turns pouring coffee at meetings that have coffee. We can help setup or clean up before and after meetings. We can chair meetings or take a turn as group officers such as secretary or treasurer. We can welcome newcomers at meetings and offer others our phone numbers for support. These are only a few suggestions. All of these activities are completely voluntary but many recovering people find them an important asset to their own recovery.

Many members view service work and carrying the message of recovery as an expression of gratitude. They understand that others are suffering the same despair and chaos that they once experienced. They enjoy helping others, just as they were once helped. They may eventually become sponsors and pass along the things they have learned and experienced in recovery.