Guide to Narcotics Anonymous (NA) Meetings in Chico, CA

Overview of Narcotics Anonymous (NA) Meetings in Chico, CA

Narcotics Anonymous (NA) is a non-profit fellowship or society of recovering drug addicts whose primary purpose is to help addicts stop using drugs. NA relies on a set of principles adapted from Alcoholics Anonymous and uses a tradition of complete abstinence from all drugs, including alcohol as a recovery method.

NA meetings provide a safe, supportive environment for addicts seeking recovery. Meetings are led by recovering addicts who share their experiences and provide encouragement to others. There are no membership fees or dues; NA is self-supporting through member contributions.

In this article, we will provide an overview of NA meetings available in Chico, California. We will cover the types of meetings, locations, times, and other relevant details to help those looking for NA support in the Chico area.

Types of NA Meetings in Chico

There are several types of NA meetings available in Chico, including:

• Basic recovery meetings - These focus on sharing NA principles and personal stories of recovery.
• Step meetings - Focus on working through one of the 12 steps of NA.
• Speaker meetings - A speaker shares their personal story of recovery.
• Newcomer meetings - Geared towards those new to NA.
• Special interest meetings - Tailored to specific groups like men, women, LGBTQ+, young people, etc.

NA meetings in Chico provide a mix of these different formats to support members in all stages of recovery.

Locations of NA Meetings in Chico

There are several locations in Chico that host NA meetings on a regular basis:

• Chico Community Church - 10 Concord Ave, Chico, CA 95928
• St. Augustine of Canterbury Anglican Church - 228 Salem St, Chico, CA 95928
• Trinity United Methodist Church - 285 E 5th St, Chico, CA 95928
• Chico Peace & Justice Center - 526 Broadway St, Chico, CA 95928
• Stonewall Alliance Center - 358 E 6th St, Chico, CA 95928

In addition to dedicated meeting spaces, some NA groups in Chico also meet in members' homes. Contact the local NA hotline to get details on specific home group locations.

NA Meeting Times in Chico

NA meetings take place frequently throughout the week in Chico at various times:

• Mornings: Monday-Friday at 6:30am and 11am.
• Afternoons: Monday-Friday at 12pm and 5:30pm.
• Evenings: Daily at 6pm, Monday-Friday at 7pm, Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday at 8pm.
• Late evenings: Daily at 10pm.

On weekends, there are meetings at 9am, 10am, 12pm, 6pm, and 10pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

With meetings happening throughout the day, those seeking an NA meeting in Chico can likely find one that fits their schedule.

What to Expect at an NA Meeting in Chico

NA meetings generally last 60-90 minutes and follow a certain format, though some variation occurs between different meetings.

A typical meeting may include:

• Opening readings of NA literature
• Introductions of those in attendance
• Speaker sharing their recovery story, if a speaker meeting
• Open sharing by attendees
• Discussion of one of the 12 steps, if a step meeting
• Passing NA chips to mark milestones of sobriety
• Reciting the Serenity Prayer at end

Meetings are led by a chairperson and newcomers are welcomed. Many meetings conclude with members socializing and chatting while enjoying refreshments.

How to Get Involved in Chico NA

To take part in NA meetings in Chico, simply show up at any meeting. No advance registration or intro is required. NA also relies on members to help with service to keep groups running smoothly.

Ways to get involved include:

• Setting up chairs and refreshments
• Greeting newcomers
• Helping clean up
• Making coffee
• Leading a meeting
• Sharing your story
• Sponsoring another member
• Getting involved at the NA District level

NA encourages members to get involved at whatever level feels comfortable to them. Service helps NA groups thrive while also being a part of one's recovery journey.

Finding a Sponsor in Chico NA

Having an NA sponsor is considered an important part of working through the 12 steps. A sponsor acts as a mentor and guide on your recovery path. They help you work through challenges, share their experience, and provide support.

The best way to find a sponsor in Chico is to attend various NA meetings and get to know members. Let people know you're looking for a sponsor and listen to shares to find someone you connect with. The right sponsor will likely find you when the time is right.

Some things to look for in a potential NA sponsor:

• 3+ years of continuous sobriety
• Active participation in NA
• Comfort talking about spiritual principles
• Willingness to meet regularly and talk
• Alignment with your needs and personality

An NA sponsor provides invaluable guidance in early recovery. They help you navigate challenges, focus on your growth, and avoid relapse.

The Benefits of Attending NA Meetings

Attending NA meetings can provide many benefits for those recovering from drug addiction including:

• Peer support - Connecting with others going through similar struggles provides a sense of community and understanding.
• Accountability - Having regular meetings and a sponsor keeps you focused on your recovery.
• Shared experiences - Hearing others share their journey with addiction helps you realize you're not alone.
• Guidance - Oldtimers provide practical tips and wisdom on navigating recovery.
• Structure - Meetings give your life stability and purpose during early recovery phases.
• Personal growth - Working the 12 steps leads to spiritual and emotional development.

In short, surrounding yourself with supportive NA members creates an environment conducive to recovery. Meetings help you build the skills, mindset, and community needed for sobriety.

NA vs. Other Support Groups

NA provides targeted support for drug addiction recovery. However, there are other support group options like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or SMART Recovery that follow a different approach. Some key differences include:

• AA - Focuses on alcoholism specifically vs. drug addiction. Uses 12 steps but they reference alcohol.
• SMART - Uses cognitive behavioral techniques and doesn't frame addiction as a disease. No sponsorship model.
• NA - Addresses all drug addictions using adapted 12 steps. Relies heavily on sponsorship and a spiritual program.

People may vibe more with NA versus AA or SMART based on their specific substance used and recovery style preference. NA keeps the focus tight on overcoming addiction to drugs.

Integrating Other Recovery Support

NA provides targeted support for drug addiction. But full recovery often benefits from other forms of support including:

• Therapy - One-on-one and group counseling address underlying issues.
• Medical - Doctor supervision handles detox, medications, and health issues.
• Exercise - Fitness regimens boost mental health and relieve stress.
• Meditation - Develops mindfulness and self-awareness.
• Self-care - Taking time for yourself prevents burnout.

An integrated recovery plan covering multiple bases gives you the best chance at sustained sobriety. NA meetings are a cornerstone but not the whole picture.

How to Get Connected to NA in Chico, CA

If you or a loved one is seeking NA support in the Chico area, here are some tips for getting connected:

Look Up Meeting Times & Locations

The Chico NA website provides a full meeting directory including days, times, locations, and meeting types. The NA hotline also has up-to-date meeting information.

Just Show Up

There is no need to overthink attending your first meeting. Simply arrive shortly before the meeting time and stay for the entire duration.

Introduce Yourself

Let the group know it's your first meeting and share your first name. Members will welcome you.

Talk to Members & Get Phone Numbers

Chat with members before or after the meeting and exchange numbers of those you connect with. This provides support between meetings.

Keep Coming Back

Attend different meetings until you find your home group. Regular meeting attendance is key, especially early in recovery.

Find a Sponsor

A sponsor accelerates your recovery progress. Listen for someone with whom you resonate.

Get Involved

Volunteer for service positions at meetings you attend regularly. This engages you more in the NA community.

By taking these simple steps, you can tap into NA as a vital recovery resource. Consistent meeting attendance, paired with an open mind and willingness, allows NA to guide you toward freedom from active addiction.

Conclusion

Narcotics Anonymous provides a structured yet welcoming environment for people seeking recovery from drug addiction. The many weekly NA meetings in Chico give ample opportunity to connect with supportive members working the 12-step program.

Attending NA meetings helps build a strong recovery network. Sharing experience, strength, and hope with fellow addicts motivates and uplifts. Working the NA program leads to personal growth, spiritual development, and most importantly - a drug-free life.

NA has helped millions reclaim their lives from addiction. The NA fellowship arms people with the tools and community needed for enhanced wellbeing and serenity. Anyone wanting to break the chains of addiction is encouraged to attend an NA meeting and discover the support available.

FAQs

What is the format of an NA meeting?

Most NA meetings follow a similar general format including opening readings, introductions, a speaker share (at some meetings), open sharing from attendees, discussing an NA step, passing sobriety chips, reciting the Serenity Prayer, and socializing afterward.

Do I have to share if I attend an NA meeting?

No, you are not required to share at NA meetings if you do not want to. You can simply listen and participate at your own comfort level. However, sharing is encouraged when you are ready.

How much do NA meetings cost?

NA meetings are free to attend. The program is funded entirely by member donations. There are no dues or fees to pay to be a part of NA.