At the most basic level, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a large network of small groups who use the 12 steps as a guide to overcome alcoholism and live sober, happy lives. There seems to be a lot of mystery around what Alcoholics Anonymous is, what it isn’t, and how AA works.

For someone who has battled addiction, talking to a family member or loved one about the addiction can be difficult and emotionally draining. This article will provide some points to keep in mind when explaining addiction to someone to a non-addict.

Getting a sponsor in AA is nearly synonymous with the 12-steps. What’s interesting, though, is that the 12 steps nor the Big Book mention sponsorship explicitly, even though both provide detailed instructions on nearly every other aspect of recovery. To help you out, here are five tips to help you find a sponsor in AA.

With the legalization of marijuana coming to fruition in another 2 states (Michigan and Illinois), 11 states plus Washington D.C. have now legalized adult use of marijuana. More and more states and their constituents are voting to legalize weed, in part because many argue that smoking herb is less addictive (and safer) than alcohol.