It is a shame today there isn't some sort of support system that prepares us for this moment. It shouldn't be as hard as it is to sit there in that first meeting. A lot of stigma still remains about Alcoholism that comes from before the time of the AA recovery program. Recovery from Alcoholism should be better supported by our society at large with positive encouragement that it's a good thing to get help with a drinking problem. This would aid us and would benefit everyone, not just us. By doing this so many more people would be able to begin recovery long before the point devastation that so many have to reach now. Sitting there all by ourselves usually, with something hanging over our heads, and that if we don't stop drinking, all will be lost. What a terrible way to be introduced to the help that we desperately need and want.