Stories of Secular Recovery from Addiction through Narcotics Anonymous

Annda describes nearly three decades of secret substance abuse that ended when she sought help and found her way to 12 step programs. As an atheist, she ignored the "God stuff" from the start, guided in part by an old-timer who modeled recovery without belief. Ten years into sobriety she discovered Narcotics Anonymous, She describes her recovery as simple, relational, and ongoing — a daily practice that has carried her and her family through continued hardship without a return to use. For mor...

In this episode, we hear from John C, an Australian NA member with nearly 39 years of recovery. In his share, John describes building a secular, humanist path through the Twelve Steps by replacing belief in God with humility, honest self-examination, and a deepening capacity to love the people closest to him. John’s story offers proof that the program bends to fit the person, not the other way around. Recorded on May 2, 2025 at the Friday, NA Secular Speaker Meeting. For more informatio...

In this episode, we hear from Pamee who has a 36 year connection with NA, with honest detours along the way. Pamee speaks about relapse, PTSD, service, and healing with a candor that doesn't flinch. This is a share about staying alive, staying clean, and building a life where both are possible. Lastly, Pamee reminds us that healing runs alongside recovery, not behind it. Recorded on June 10, 2026 at the Wednesday Another Secular Meeting meeting. For more information on recovery from add...

In this episode, we hear from Bob O. Bob reflects on how he talked himself into addiction by romanticizing self-destruction. Bob reminds us that addiction doesn't always take root in trauma or involve a dramatic backstory. Through choosing recovery and relying on Secular NA, Bob has built a quieter, more honest and fulfilling life. Recorded on March 22, 2025 at the Friday, NA Secular Speaker Meeting. For more information on recovery from addiction through Narcotics Anonym...

In this episode, we hear from Paulette. Paulette reflects on 29 years of secular recovery, describing how she found her higher power in the fellowship of NA itself, adapted the 12 Steps to her own values, and built a meaningful, authentic life — earning her bachelor's degree at 60 — without ever believing in a supernatural god. This share was recorded at the September 2025 New Mexico NA Convention where PAULETTE presented on the topic “Our Need and Capacity for Spiritual Growth is Infin...