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What is NA?
Narcotics Anonymous (NA) is a support group designed for individuals struggling with drug addiction. It operates as a free program offering a safe environment where members can share their experiences and support one another in their recovery journey. NA is accessible in numerous cities across the United States, including New Jersey, the Ocean County area, and Forked River.
Regular group meetings are held throughout these locations, providing structured support and fellowship to those committed to overcoming substance use disorders. The meetings are open to all who want to stop using drugs, regardless of the type or degree of addiction.
Christ Episcopal Church – Toms River
Address: 415 Washington St, Toms River, NJ
Meeting Time: Saturdays, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Method/Details: This meeting, called “We Do Recover,” is an open discussion group focusing on sharing experiences and reinforcing the personal recovery process. It encourages new members to participate in an inclusive and supportive setting, fostering mutual encouragement.
Southern Ocean Medical Center – Bayville
Address: 1140 Route 72 West, Peach Plum Room, Bayville, NJ
Meeting Time: Daily, 8:00 PM – 9:15 PM
Method/Details: Named “At the End of the Road,” this meeting is open to all addicts seeking recovery and features discussion formats and step studies. Weekly candlelight celebrations are also held, providing an opportunity for members to commemorate milestones.
Faith Community Church – Bayville
Address: 526 Atlantic City Blvd (Route 9), Bayville, NJ (Please use side entrance)
Meeting Time: Rotating Wednesdays, 9:30 PM – 10:45 PM
Method/Details: “Giving It Away” offers rotating formats including step meetings, discussion, and literature study, particularly focusing on the NA Basic Text and guiding principles. The group holds monthly celebrations, allowing members to reflect on their progress and commitment.
The 12 Steps of NA
- We admitted that we were powerless over our addiction—that our lives had become unmanageable. This step encourages acknowledging the lack of control over drug use and the resultant chaos in life, which is the foundation for seeking help.
- Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. Members open themselves to the possibility that recovery can come through support and spiritual growth beyond individual effort.
- Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him. This step focuses on commitment to recovery by trusting in a higher power or collective support system, fostering humility and faith.
- Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves. Members critically evaluate their behaviors and character, identifying patterns that hinder recovery.
- Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs. Confession and transparency are emphasized to relieve guilt and promote accountability.
- Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character. This step prepares members for personal transformation by letting go of harmful attitudes and behaviors.
- Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings. Seeking help for change reinforces humility and the willingness to improve.
- Made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all. Taking responsibility for past harm is key to healing relationships and restoring trust.
- Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others. This step promotes reconciliation and repairing the damage caused.
- Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it. Ongoing self-monitoring and honesty ensure sustained recovery progress.
- 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. Spiritual practice strengthens recovery and purpose.
- 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. Members commit to helping others and living by NA principles in daily life.
This 12-step process aims to motivate members toward positive change and recovery across New Jersey, Ocean County, and Forked River.
Getting Started with NA in New Jersey, Ocean, Forked River, USA
Individuals seeking Narcotics Anonymous meetings in the New Jersey, Ocean County, and Forked River areas are best advised to use Methadone.org to search for local meetings. This website provides the most reliable and updated listings of both in-person and virtual meetings available throughout these locations.
Most places offer both meeting formats, allowing members flexibility in choosing how they attend.
Attending Your First Local NA Meeting
When attending your first NA meeting in New Jersey, Ocean, Forked River, it’s important to understand the difference between open and closed meetings:
| Meeting Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Open Meeting | Open to anyone interested in recovery, including addicts, family members, and friends. These meetings foster education and community awareness about addiction and recovery. |
| Closed Meeting | Restricted to individuals who identify as addicts or have a desire to stop using drugs. Provides a confidential and supportive environment focused solely on recovery. |
- Arrive early to introduce yourself as a new local member; this helps facilitators guide you through the meeting process.
- You may share your experiences during the meeting if you feel comfortable; however, listening is also a valuable contribution.
- Receive special welcome keychain tags to celebrate your recovery milestones.
Keychain Tag Milestones:
- 30 days: Marks completing the first month of continuous recovery, signifying commitment and initial progress.
- 60 days: Celebrates sustained effort and growing strength in sobriety.
- 1 year: Recognizes a significant achievement in long-term recovery, reinforcing resilience and dedication.