Alcoholics Anonymous members find support during coronavirus pandemic
CNNCNN — Anthony B. used to get to his Alcoholics Anonymous meetings early enough to set up the folding chairs synonymous with the gatherings. “The meeting before the meeting is another way that we support each other.” When social distancing requirements during the coronavirus crisis took those meetings away, Anthony was concerned about the potential fallout. Lawrence said he’s added a sort of “digital bouncer” to help police the chats in the meetings he hosts. “When people access a platform like Zoom for a meeting, it’s an extension of what they’re learning in treatment,” he says. Either way, if someone is feeling isolated or lonely, they have a way to connect.” Lawrence said the online meetings are convenient for moms who struggle with finding child care, as well as people who feel under the weather and who, because of fears about coronavirus, don’t want to chance leaving their homes.