Narcotics Anonymous

Narcotics Anonymous is a fellowship for people seeking recovery from drug addiction. It was inspired by Alcoholics Anonymous and follows a similar model, offering a twelve-step program and mutual support system to help members overcome addiction and build healthier lives. NA is one of the most widely available programs for people with substance use disorders, and its core philosophy is that addiction is a disease that can be managed with peer support and adherence to the twelve-steps. 

www.na.org

Narcotics/Drugs

Theistic (non-specific)

Narcotics Anonymous was founded in 1953 by Jimmy Kinnon, adapting the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous to focus on individuals addicted to narcotics and other substances. The group started in Los Angeles, California, and has since grown into one of the largest international recovery programs. Early members recognized the need for a support group focused specifically on drug addiction that would be distinct from AA’s focus on alcohol. At the time, societal stigma around drug use was high, so NA faced challenges, including initial skepticism from medical and religious groups and even resistance from some parts of AA.

Despite these hurdles, the group grew steadily, especially with the 1982 publication of Narcotics Anonymous, often called “The Basic Text,” which outlined NA’s philosophy and practices. In the 1980s and 1990s, NA experienced rapid growth, fueled partly by the increasing awareness and prevalence of addiction issues worldwide. Chapters began to form across North America, and NA spread internationally. Narcotics Anonymous now holds tens of thousands of meeting across the U.S., and the program is now in over 130 countries with literature available in numerous languages to ensure accessibility and inclusivity.

NA uses a twelve-step program modeled after AA, where individuals admit their powerlessness over addiction, seek help from a higher power, take moral inventory, make amends for past harms, and commit to a new way of life. NA meetings are open to anyone seeking help for addiction. Meetings vary in format; some are “open” to friends, family, and anyone interested in learning about NA, while “closed” meetings are exclusively for those with substance use issues. Members are also encouraged to find sponsors — experienced members who provide guidance and support on the recovery journey. This personal mentorship has become a cornerstone of the NA experience.

Narcotics Anonymous by Anonymous

Narcotics Anonymous uses the same twelve steps as Alcoholics Anonymous

Narcotics Anonymous promotes total abstinence from drugs

Sponsorship is a one-on-one relationship between a newer member and a more experienced one. The sponsor provides personal guidance, shares their experience, and offers support during difficult times, helping the sponsee navigate the steps and stay committed to recovery.

Anonymity is central to NA’s culture, providing members with confidentiality and freedom from judgment. This allows members to speak openly about their experiences and struggles without fear of repercussions, fostering a trusting environment.

Giving back to the NA community, whether by chairing meetings, sponsoring others, or helping organize events, is seen as an important part of recovery. This kind of service fosters responsibility, provides a sense of purpose, and strengthens connections within the fellowship.

In-person: www.na.org/meetingsearch/

Online: www.na.org/virtual-meeting-search/