Top 5 AA Sponsorship Tips to Help a Newcomer Through the Holidays

Top 5 AA Sponsorship Tips to Help a Newcomer Through the Holidays

Top 5 AA Sponsorship Tips to Help a Newcomer Through the Holidays

The holidays can be stressful, lonely and difficult for people in recovery. Read our top AA sponsorship tips to help your newcomer through the holidays.


You're looking to help support a newcomer through the holidays? Start here first.

In the United States, more than 14 million adults have an alcohol use disorder. With so many people affected, it can be overwhelming to stay strong in the midst of everyday temptations.

But the real question is, how can you help a newcomer through the holidays? 

For those looking for the best, be sure to check out these top five AA sponsorship tips to help a newcomer through the holidays.

Read on to learn more.

1. Consider Being a Holiday Host for Your Newcomer

With the holiday season comes many temptations and it's very important to keep AA tips close at hand. One of the best things you can do as a sponsor is to host your newcomer during the holidays.

If your AA friends do not have a place to celebrate the holidays where they feel comfortable, consider inviting them over and celebrate in a controlled environment. It can be as elaborate as a formal party or as simple as a one-on-one coffee outing.

It's all about that sense of community and support in a safe environment!

2. Be Sure to Keep Your Mobile Device Close at Hand

During the holiday, be sure to keep your mobile device close at hand should your newcomer need to contact you. It can be overwhelming to celebrate your first batch of holidays sober and you are their safety net.

Remember to always be accessible and keep your phone sound on and in an easily accessible location. 

3. Have Extra AA Activities Lined Up for the Holiday Season

One of the best AA tips to stay sober is to have extra AA activities lined up for the holiday season. Plan to take newcomers to meetings on a regular basis until they feel confident and comfortable getting there on their own.

Consider doing activities together such as:

  • Visiting an alcoholic ward at a hospital
  • Help out with a community event
  • Answer phones at the central office

Whatever it is you choose to do, be sure to do it together.

4. Keep It Simple

Perhaps most important, keep it simple. When your newcomer sees you up front as an AA speaker and sponsor, it can be intimidating. Remember you were new to this once too.

During AA meetings, be approachable and supportive of your newcomer. 

Try to be empathetic towards your newcomer and let them know you're reliable and are there to support them. Remember you're not alone. Don't be afraid to lean on your sponsor for advice as well.  

AA Sponsorship Tips

The holidays can be stressful, lonely and difficult for people in recovery. Be sure to keep these top AA sponsorship tips close in hand to help your newcomer through the holidays.

The holidays are a time for cheer and community. You've got this!

Want to see more posts like this one? Check out the rest of our blog to learn more!

Sign Up for Our Newsletter
TOP