why is it called alcoholics anonymous, addicts anonymous etc. when you say your name when you introduce yourself?
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It’s anonymous in that nobody gives last names and you do not talk about anything discussed during the meetings or about anyone you see/meet at the meetings. You’re not anonymous to eachother, you and your story is anonymous to the world outside the group. The significance of that can sometimes be difficult to understand for someone who’s never been to a meeting, but it really is a big deal for them.
No last names and a mutual understanding that you don’t ever say who else was in the room even if you know.
The groups are known for their anonymity as a whole unit. No one inside of the group should give out the name of any other member inside the group to anyone outside of the group.
My granddad was in AA in a smallish town. They take the anonymous sharing seriously. There you learn people’s deepest, darkest secrets. He never told who was there (they have some nights open to the public and family/friends can go when there’s a milestone celebration (1,5,10 years clean).
According the traditions, anonymity only refers to be anonymous at the level of press, radio, and film.
It’s only anonymous as far as judgement goes. It’s meant to be a safe place to share experiences and those who share are not judged but simply heard. There is anonymity in the sense that no one labels or judges others in those places.
Because nothing is recorded in an official capacity.
You give your first name and that’s it.
If you are having treatment through a doctor anyone who has access to your medical records can see the history of your addiction, be it through official or nefarious means.
No last names, you don’t tell anybody outside the meeting about any stories that were shared in the meeting. The founder is just referred to as Bill W.
What happens in meetings, stays in meetings.
Or at least its supposed to. When people attend what’s said in that room is supposed to be confidential, just like in traditional talk therapy.
For many it’s hard enough to admit you have an issue, let alone seek help for it, and it gives them a space to talk with peers struggling with similar demons to speak freely without fear of someone finding out, especially someone you wouldn’t want to find out. Some meetings encourage you to bring people you trust as a support network, others don’t for anonymity reasons. Plus they tend to go on a first name basis, and even so it is a bit of a cliche. I’ve heard of meetings you can attend and just listen and take it in. Not all group therapies do the introduction thing, and not all group therapies are the same, even if they are all are branches of the same type (like in this case NA and AA)
If you’re seeking help, don’t be afraid to try different meetings to find one that works well for you. And ask others in the group for other resources. Not all meetings are the same or on the same day. Plus coffee and snacks.
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