Your first meeting
Many people feel nervous at a first meeting.
What you need
- Nothing. No fees, no sign-up, no referral.
- The only requirement for GA membership is a desire to stop gambling.
What happens
- Meetings usually last 60 to 90 minutes.
- Someone chairs the meeting and may read a short introduction.
- People take turns sharing their experience. You can say “I'll just listen” or simply stay quiet.
- There may be a collection. Newcomers are never expected to give.
- A few groups ask you to email or call before your first visit, often so someone can meet you at the door. The meeting's page shows how. Saying you are new is enough.
Joining online
- Tap Join. On a phone, Zoom may ask you to install its app first. On a computer it can run in your browser.
- If asked for a passcode, it is shown next to the Join button. Select Copy to copy it.
- You can keep your camera off and your microphone muted. A first name, or initials, is fine as your display name.
- It's fine to join a few minutes late or leave early.
Who can attend
Anyone welcome (GA says open): anyone may attend, including family, friends and professionals.
For gamblers (GA says closed): for people who think they may have a gambling problem. If that describes you, you can go to either kind, even the first time.
Family or friend of someone who gambles? Gam-Anon is for you.
Anonymity
Members are asked to keep what is said in a meeting private. You do not have to give your full name.