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What is NA?

Narcotics Anonymous (NA) is a support group dedicated to individuals struggling with drug addiction. It offers a welcoming community where members can share their experiences and support each other in maintaining sobriety. NA is available in cities across the United States, including California, Riverside, and San Jacinto, providing free programs with regular group meetings designed to help participants on their recovery journey.

Address 1: Riverside Community Center

Location: 3701 Market St, Riverside, CA 92501

Meeting Times: Every Tuesday and Thursday, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Meeting Details: This in-person meeting follows a traditional format beginning with a Reading of NA literature, followed by open sharing where members discuss their challenges and victories in recovery. Each session is facilitated by a rotating group of members who ensure the meeting remains supportive and confidential.

Address 2: San Jacinto Public Library Conference Room

Location: 595 S San Jacinto Ave, San Jacinto, CA 92583

Meeting Times: Mondays and Fridays, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Meeting Details: These meetings are open to newcomers and experienced members alike, delivered in a semi-structured format with time for discussion about the 12 steps and personal experiences. Emphasis is placed on mutual respect and anonymity, creating a safe space for sharing.

Address 3: Faith Lutheran Church, Riverside

Location: 2200 Canyon Crest Dr, Riverside, CA 92507

Meeting Times: Wednesdays at 6:30 PM

Meeting Details: This meeting blends speaker-led sessions and open discussions, where members share testimonials followed by group reflections. The group encourages participation at every level, including newcomers Reading NA literature aloud to foster engagement and understanding.

The 12 Steps of NA

  1. Admitting Powerlessness: We admitted that we were powerless over our addiction and that our lives had become unmanageable. This step encourages acceptance as the foundation for change.
  2. Belief in a Higher Power: Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. This step opens the Door to spiritual growth and hope.
  3. Decision to Turn Over: Made a decision to turn our will and lives over to the care of this Higher Power. It is a commitment to trust beyond self-will.
  4. Self-Inventory: Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves. This encourages honest reflection to identify patterns that contribute to addiction.
  5. Admitting Wrongs: Admitted to the Higher Power, ourselves, and another person the exact nature of our wrongs. This step helps release guilt and fosters accountability.
  6. Ready to Let Go: Were entirely ready to have the Higher Power remove all these defects of character. It indicates preparedness for change and growth.
  7. Humbly Asked: Humbly asked the Higher Power to remove our shortcomings. This step emphasizes humility and willingness to change.
  8. Made a List of Harmed Persons: Made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all. This encourages responsibility and reconciliation.
  9. Made Amends: Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when doing so would injure them or others. Restoration of relationships is central here.
  10. Continued Inventory: Continued to take personal inventory and promptly admitted when we were wrong. This promotes ongoing self-awareness and correction.
  11. Sought Spiritual Connection: Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with the Higher Power, praying only for knowledge of the will for us and the power to carry that out. This fosters spiritual maintenance.
  12. Spiritual Awakening and Service: Having had a spiritual awakening as a result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to addicts and to practice these principles in all our affairs. This step emphasizes service and living the NA principles daily.

Getting Started with NA in California, Riverside, San Jacinto, USA

The most reliable way to find local NA meetings in California, Riverside, and San Jacinto is by searching on Methadone.org. This website lists updated meeting times, locations, and formats, helping individuals connect with nearby support groups. Most locations offer both in-person and online or virtual meetings to accommodate different needs and preferences.

Attending Your First Local NA Meeting

In California, Riverside, and San Jacinto, NA meetings are classified as either open or closed. Understanding the difference helps newcomers know what to expect and how to participate.

Meeting Type Description
Open Meeting Open to anyone interested, including addicts, family members, and friends. These meetings typically include discussion and educational sessions about recovery.
Closed Meeting Restricted to individuals who identify as addicts seeking recovery. This environment fosters privacy and focused sharing.
  • Arrive early to introduce yourself as a new member and get comfortable with the group.
  • Share your experiences only if you feel comfortable and ready to do so.
  • Receive a welcome keychain tag at your first meeting as a token of encouragement and recognition.

NA Keychain Tag Milestones

  • 30 Days: Celebrates one month of continuous recovery, symbolizing commitment and progress.
  • 60 Days: Marks two months of sustained sobriety, encouraging perseverance beyond initial challenges.
  • 1 Year: A major milestone, celebrating twelve months of sobriety and personal growth within the NA community.
  • Further milestones often include 18 months, 2 years, and beyond, each recognizing continued commitment and transformation.