Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA)

What Is Sex Addicts Anonymous?

Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) is a 12-step program designed to help individuals who feel their sexual behaviors have become compulsive and unmanageable. While “sex addiction” is the term used within the fellowship, the World Health Organization (WHO) formally recognizes the condition as Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD).

Similar to other 12-step programs, the term “sex addict” is used within Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) as a form of direct self-identification, not as a clinical diagnosis.

For members, admitting “I am a sex addict” is a crucial part of the First Step. This act signifies an acknowledgment of powerlessness over compulsive sexual behavior and helps break through denial. This shared identity creates a common ground and a sense of unity, regardless of members’ specific behaviors, genders, or orientations. While the term can be stigmatizing in the outside world, the SAA fellowship reclaims it as a statement of acceptance and the starting point for a shared journey toward recovery.

Based on principles similar to those of Alcoholics Anonymous, SAA provides a supportive community for individuals seeking recovery from unhealthy patterns of sexual behavior.

SAA emphasizes anonymity to create a safe and confidential space where members can openly share their experiences without fear of judgment or stigma.

This program is available to anyone who identifies as having a problem with sexual behaviors that interfere with their well-being, relationships, or daily responsibilities.

Where Did SAA Come From?

Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) began in the late 1970s to support people struggling with compulsive sexual behavior. It was inspired by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and uses the 12-step approach to help individuals address their challenges.

SAA was created to provide a safe and supportive space where people can share their experiences and work toward recovery without fear of judgment.

Its principles, described in the book Sex Addicts Anonymous (sometimes called the “SAA Green Book”), focus on honesty, accountability, and mutual support.

Sex Addicts Anonymous Goals and Principles

Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) aims to help individuals break free from the cycle of compulsive sexual behaviors and achieve lasting recovery.

By fostering a supportive and understanding environment, the program empowers members to rebuild their lives and establish healthier relationships with themselves and others.

The primary goals of SAA include:

• Achieving Sexual Sobriety: Members work toward defining and maintaining sexual sobriety based on personal boundaries that support their recovery journey.
• Developing Self-Awareness: Through the 12-step process, individuals gain a deeper understanding of the emotional, psychological, and spiritual factors contributing to their behaviors.
• Building Healthy Connections: SAA encourages members to form supportive relationships with others in recovery, offering mutual encouragement and accountability.
• Restoring Balance in Life: The program helps individuals cultivate healthier coping mechanisms and rebuild damaged relationships, fostering a sense of balance and fulfillment.

Twelve Steps of Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA)

The 12 steps of Sex Addicts Anonymous serve as a guideline for people seeking recovery from compulsive sexual behavior.

Adapted from the original 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, these steps promote personal growth, self-reflection, and spiritual healing.

The 12 Steps of SAA are:

1. We admitted we were powerless over addictive sexual behavior—that our lives had become unmanageable.
2. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.
3. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood God.
4. Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.
5. Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being, the exact nature of our wrongs.
6. Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.
7. Humbly asked God to remove our shortcomings.
8. Made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all.
9. Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when doing so would injure them or others.
10. Continued to take personal inventory and, when we were wrong, promptly admitted it.
11. Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood God, praying only for knowledge of God’s will for us and the power to carry that out.
12. Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to other sex addicts and to practice these principles in our lives.

Twelve Traditions of SAA

While the twelve steps of SAA create a step-by-step guideline for members to follow in their recovery, the twelve traditions are focused on the group’s overall principles.

The twelve traditions are:

1. Our common welfare should come first; personal recovery depends upon SAA unity.
2. For our group purpose, there is but one ultimate authority: a loving God as expressed in our group conscience. Our leaders are but trusted servants; they do not govern.
3. The only requirement for SAA membership is a desire to stop addictive sexual behavior.
4. Each group should be autonomous except in matters affecting other groups or SAA as a whole.
5. Each group has but one primary purpose: to carry its message to the sex addict who still suffers.
6. An SAA group ought never to endorse, finance, or lend the SAA name to any related facility or outside enterprise, lest problems of money, property, and prestige divert us from our primary purpose.
7. Every SAA group ought to be fully self-supporting, declining outside contributions.
8. Sex Addicts Anonymous should remain forever nonprofessional, but our service centers may employ special workers.
9. SAA, as such, ought never to be organized, but we may create service boards or committees directly responsible to those they serve.
10. Sex Addicts Anonymous has no opinion on outside issues; hence, the SAA name ought never to be drawn into public controversy.
11. Our public relations policy is based on attraction rather than promotion; we need to always maintain personal anonymity at the level of press, radio, TV, and films.
12. Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all our traditions, ever reminding us to place principles before personalities.

Sex Addicts Anonymous Meetings

SAA meetings provide a crucial source of support and fellowship for individuals navigating the recovery process from compulsive sexual behavior.

Whether someone is just beginning their journey or has been in recovery for years, SAA meetings offer a sense of community and connection that can be instrumental in maintaining sexual sobriety and fostering personal growth.

What to Expect at a SAA Meeting

SAA meetings offer a caring community where individuals share similar experiences. The fellowship is LGBTQ-inclusive, welcoming people of all genders, sexual orientations, and backgrounds.

SAA Meetings typically last about 60 minutes and follow a structured format. A member leads the session, which may include readings, personal sharing, and discussions on recovery topics.

Participation is voluntary, and newcomers are welcome to listen. They are usually asked to introduce themselves by first name only to protect everyone’s anonymity.

To ensure a safe environment, meetings typically follow a ‘no cross-talk’ guideline. This means members share their own experiences without interrupting or offering advice to others, allowing everyone to speak from the heart without fear of judgment.

There are no dues or fees to attend SAA meetings, and no prior registration is necessary.

Sponsorship

A key part of the SAA program is sponsorship, where a member with more experience in recovery guides a newer member through the Twelve Steps.

This one-on-one relationship provides personal support, accountability, and a direct connection to someone who understands the recovery process.

For those in recovery who have become sponsors, it is equally impactful, as teaching, guiding, and serving others can edify your own recovery.

Who Can Attend SAA Meetings?

Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) meetings are open to anyone who is struggling with compulsive sexual behavior and is seeking support to recover.

Whether you are dealing with unhealthy patterns or their consequences, SAA welcomes individuals from all walks of life who are committed to addressing these challenges.

There are no requirements for attendance other than a desire to stop addictive sexual behaviors.

SAA meetings are inclusive, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space for people of all genders, sexual orientations, and backgrounds. Each person’s journey is respected, and members are encouraged to share only what they feel comfortable with.

By creating a supportive environment, SAA ensures that everyone, regardless of where they are in their recovery process, has access to the help they need.

Benefits of SAA Meetings

Attending Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) meetings offers many benefits to anyone seeking recovery from compulsive sexual behavior.

SAA meetings do more than just provide support; they create a foundation for personal growth, accountability, and lasting change.

Key benefits include:

• A Safe and Supportive Environment: SAA meetings offer a judgment-free space where individuals can share their experiences openly and honestly without fear of stigma.
• Accountability: Regular participation helps members stay committed to their recovery goals by fostering a sense of responsibility toward themselves and their peers.
• Community and Connection: The sense of fellowship in SAA meetings reduces feelings of isolation, reminding participants that they are not alone in their struggles.
• Anonymity: The emphasis on confidentiality makes members feel secure, knowing their privacy is respected.
• Guidance Through the 12 Steps: Meetings provide practical tools and insights for working through the 12-step program, promoting personal growth and healing.
• Emotional and Psychological Support: Members gain encouragement and understanding from others who have faced similar challenges, which can be profoundly reassuring and motivating.
• Encouragement of Healthy Behaviors: SAA helps participants develop healthier coping mechanisms, rebuild relationships, and restore balance to their lives.

How to Find a SAA Meeting Near You

Finding a Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) meeting near you is straightforward and accessible. The SAA community provides multiple resources to help individuals locate meetings that suit their needs.

Here’s how you can get started:

• Visit the SAA Official Website: The Sex Addicts Anonymous website offers a detailed meeting directory. You can search for in-person, online, or phone meetings based on your location and availability. You can also filter results by city, state, or country.
• Explore Online and Phone Meetings: Virtual and phone-based options provide a convenient, confidential alternative to in-person meetings.
• Local Listings and Resources: Check with local community centers, addiction support organizations, or mental health facilities, which often have information about SAA meetings in your area.

Get Help for Sex Addiction

If you or someone you care about is struggling with compulsive sexual behavior, the SAMHSA National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) offers free, confidential support 24/7. This helpline connects you to resources, including local therapists and recovery professionals.

Additionally, you can use the SAMHSA online treatment locator to find services near you that are tailored to your needs or visit our Find Treatment Help page.

Written by

Jessica Miller

Editorial Director

Jessica Miller is the Editorial Director of Addiction Help. Jessica graduated from the University of South Florida (USF) with an English degree and combines her writing expertise and passion for helping others to deliver reliable information to those impacted by addiction. Informed by her personal journey to recovery and support of loved ones in sobriety, Jessica's empathetic and authentic approach resonates deeply with the Addiction Help community.

Reviewed by

• Fact-Checked
• Editor

Kent S. Hoffman, D.O.

Co-Founder & Chief Medical Officer

Kent S. Hoffman, D.O. has been an expert in addiction medicine for more than 15 years. In addition to managing a successful family medical practice, Dr. Hoffman is board certified in addiction medicine by the American Osteopathic Academy of Addiction Medicine (AOAAM). Dr. Hoffman has successfully treated hundreds of patients battling addiction. Dr. Hoffman is the Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer of AddictionHelp.com and ensures the website’s medical content and messaging quality.