What is NA?
Narcotics Anonymous (NA) is a global, community-based support group for individuals struggling with drug addiction. It operates in numerous cities across the United States, including New Jersey, Monmouth, and Middletown. NA provides a free program with regular group meetings designed to help members achieve recovery and live a drug-free life. Meetings are held in various locations throughout the state, offering a supportive environment where individuals can share experiences and find guidance toward recovery.
Middletown, NJ
North Middletown Vol. Fire Co. 1, 165 Cherry Tree Farm Rd, Middletown, NJ 07748
Meetings in Middletown are typically held on a weekly basis, often including both morning and evening sessions. The meetings are conducted in a supportive group setting where members can share their stories and receive encouragement from others who have experienced similar struggles.
Monmouth County, NJ
Monmouth County locations vary, but meetings are frequently held in places like Long Branch and Freehold. These meetings often include a mix of newcomer meetings and regular sessions, providing resources for those new to NA as well as long-time members.
Meetings in Monmouth County are structured to help newcomers feel welcome and supported, while also offering experienced members the opportunity to share their recovery stories and insights.
New Brunswick, NJ
New Brunswick meetings are typically held at locations like the First Reformed Church or other community centers. These meetings are conducted in both English and Spanish to cater to a diverse population, ensuring that everyone can participate and benefit from the support.
The New Brunswick meetings focus on providing a comprehensive support system, including guidance on the 12 Steps of NA and resources for ongoing recovery.
The 12 Steps of NA
The 12 Steps of Narcotics Anonymous are a core part of the recovery program. These steps are designed to help members achieve spiritual and personal growth, leading to a life free from drug addiction. Here is an overview of each step:
- Step 1: We admitted that we were powerless over our addiction—that our lives had become unmanageable. This step involves acknowledging the powerlessness over addiction and recognizing how it has affected one’s life. It is a critical first step toward recovery.
- Step 2: Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. This step focuses on developing faith in a higher power that can help restore sanity and guide recovery.
- Step 3: Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him. Members commit to surrendering their will to a higher power, trusting in its guidance and care.
- Step 4: Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves. This step involves a thorough examination of one’s past actions and behaviors, helping members understand the root causes of their addiction.
- Step 5: Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs. Members share their personal inventories with another person, often a sponsor, to help release guilt and shame.
- Step 6: Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character. This step involves preparing oneself to let go of negative characteristics that contribute to addiction.
- Step 7: Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings. Members humbly ask their higher power to remove these character defects, seeking spiritual growth and improvement.
- Step 8: Made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all. This step involves identifying those harmed by one’s actions and becoming willing to make restitution.
- Step 9: Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others. Members take action to make amends to those harmed, except in cases where it might cause further harm.
- Step 10: Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it. This ongoing process involves regularly examining one’s actions and promptly acknowledging any wrongdoing.
- Step 11: Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out. Members seek to deepen their spiritual connection through prayer and meditation, seeking guidance and the strength to carry out their higher power’s will.
- Step 12: Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to addicts, and to practice these principles in all our affairs. This final step involves sharing the message of recovery with others and applying the principles learned in all aspects of life.
Getting Started with NA in New Jersey, Monmouth, Middletown, USA
For individuals looking to get started with Narcotics Anonymous in New Jersey, Monmouth, or Middletown, the best approach is to search for local meetings on sites like Methadone.org or visit the official Narcotics Anonymous of New Jersey website. Both in-person and online/virtual meetings are available in most areas, providing flexibility for those seeking support.
Attending Your First Local NA Meeting
When attending your first NA meeting, it’s important to understand the difference between open and closed meetings:
| Meeting Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Open Meetings | Open to anyone, including non-addicts, such as family members or professionals interested in learning more about NA. |
| Closed Meetings | Restricted to addicts only, providing a safe space for members to share their personal experiences without fear of judgment. |
It’s recommended to arrive early and introduce yourself as a new member. If comfortable, share your experiences and listen to others. New members often receive welcome keychain tags to mark their progress and milestones:
- 30 Days: A milestone marking the beginning of consistent attendance and commitment to recovery.
- 60 Days: Recognizes continued progress and dedication to NA’s principles.
- 1 Year: Celebrates a year of sobriety and significant progress in recovery.
- Multiple Years: Marking ongoing commitment and growth in the program.
Participating in NA meetings offers a supportive environment where individuals can share experiences, receive guidance, and work toward overcoming addiction.