Your First Meeting

It is important for you to feel as comfortable as possible when you attend your first Recovery International self-help group meeting.

Before attending your first meeting, keep the following in mind:

1. Familiarize yourself with the Recovery International self-help tools and language. You can do this by researching this Web site and reading the portions from essential books for taking part in meetings: Mental Health Through Will Training, Manage Your Fears Manage Your Anger and Selections From Works By Dr. Low.
2. Since the four-part example is the most important part of meetings, take the time to complete some four-part examples on your own using the Recovery International Example Worksheet. Feel free to bring the forms you have completed to your first meeting, so you have something to reference.
3. All meetings are confidential. Although most people are comfortable sharing their name and contact information, this is not a requirement at meetings.
4. You are not required to actively participate in any meeting. If you get the help you need by listening to others, that is fine, but you are definitely encouraged to participate when you are comfortable. You never know, your example could help someone else.
5. We take the integrity of our meetings very seriously. If you attend a meeting and have a negative experience, we want to know.