Maya didn’t walk into her first support group because of her own addiction. She walked in for the people she loved.

After seeing close friends and family battle substance use—and reflecting on her own history with alcohol and medication—she wanted to better understand what recovery really meant. She started attending Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and Celebrate Recovery, hoping to learn how to support others. But what she found changed her too.

“It’s taught me a lot and helped me realize a lot of things,” she shared. “Everyone is so understanding. They support one another in ways that are real.”

Through these groups, Maya didn’t just gain insight—she gained community. She saw what it meant to walk through struggle together, to hold space for one another, and to show up without judgment.

One experience stands out above the rest: a candlelight vigil for a friend who had died by suicide.

“All of his NA friends came together. As soon as you walked into the room, you could feel the love and support—like a wave. I had never experienced anything like it. That night taught me to step out of my comfort zone. I realized how much I’d been holding myself back.”

Now, Maya encourages others—whether you’re facing substance use yourself or walking beside someone who is:

“Face your fears. Allow yourself to grow.”

Support groups aren’t just for the person in recovery. They’re for anyone who wants to grow in compassion, learn how to show up better, and walk toward healing—together.

Explore support groups: aa.org | na.org | celebraterecovery.com

 

Names and identifying details have been changed to protect privacy and honor the individual’s story.

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#FindYourPeople | June SUD Awareness Campaign