Secular Organizations for Sobriety

Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS) is a mutual-aid recovery support group for people having problems with alcohol or other drugs/addictions. It is a nonprofit, anonymous, self-supporting organization that endorses the disease model of addiction. SOS places power in the hands of the individual and uses a rational, nonspiritual approach to recovery. It uses lay-members of the group as meeting leaders. SOS recommends total abstinence as the only possible way to recovery.

SOS advocates the separation of religion and recovery, providing a voice for those having trouble with the religious/spiritual approach to recovery of 12-step groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), that have traditionally dominated the treatment industry.

SOS groups are autonomous groups connected through the SOS International Clearinghouse, located in Los Angeles, California. Founder James Christopher spearheads ...