Do and Don’ts

When going on a commitment in a hospital or institution…

  • Do Make directories of outside meetings available to residents.
  • Do Clarify the rules with whomever you bring into the facility.
  • Do Start and end on time!
  • Do Emphasize that NA recovery is available to all addicts regardless of drug(s) used.
  • Do Clearly state that Narcotics Anonymous is separate from the facility and from other fellowships.
  • Do Involve residents with the meeting, especially those in long term facilities (readings, etc.).
  • Do Obey the dress code, exercise common sense.
  • Do Screen all panel members, speakers, and chairperson(s).
  • Do Attempt to get all agreements in writing.
  • Do Adhere to the security regulations at all times.
  • Do Ensure that a clear NA message of recovery is carried by all panel members.
  • Don’t Attend H&I facilities alone.
  • Don’t Debate any issues involving facility rules, regulations, programs, or other fellowships.
  • Don’t Get involved in discussions on outside issues, This includes DRT’s.
  • Don’t give your opinion on weather a patient at the facility and on DRT’s is clean or not.
  • Don’t Emphasize using days while sharing an NA message of recovery.
  • Don’t Give anyone within the facility your address or telephone number.
  • Don’t Use excessive profanity
  • Don’t Break another person’s anonymity.
  • Don’t Discuss conditions within the facility.
  • Don’t Discuss facility staff members with inmate(s).
  • Don’t Wear flashy jewelry and don’t carry excessive cash.
  • Don’t Show favoritism to any resident(s).
  • Don’t Take messages or carry letters in or out of the facility.
  • Don’t Bring an NA member who has friends and/or family in the facility.
  • Don’t Ask what type of crime an inmate has been convicted of, or discuss guilt or innocence.
  • Don’t Accept money or gifts from, or give money or gifts to any inmate.