What Is Al-Anon?

what is al-anon

In the shadow of every person with a drinking problem stands a loved one bearing the weight of their struggle. It’s easy to become isolated and overwhelmed, despairing that nothing will change. Al-Anon groups are a haven for those caught in the undertow of someone else’s maladaptive relationship with alcohol.

The Power of Shared Experiences

Al-Anon is a worldwide spiritual fellowship offering an outlet where friends and family members of people with alcohol use disorders can share their experiences, strength, and hope. Drawing on the tried-and-true principles of the 12-step model pioneered by Alcoholics Anonymous, Al-Anon provides an environment where members can find vital camaraderie.

Many who arrive at Al-Anon or Alateen – its companion program for teenagers – come bearing a heavy burden of despair. The pain of watching a loved one’s difficulties with alcohol often brings feelings of helplessness and isolation. Al-Anon offers relief by giving you time and space to focus on your well-being.

You’re Always Welcome

Confidentiality and anonymity are the foundational principles of Al-Anon. Meetings are safe places where you can share your story without fear of judgment or exposure. This confidentiality fosters a sense of trust and openness where group members feel comfortable speaking freely about their experiences.

Al-Anon is not a program designed to help people achieve or maintain sobriety. Instead, its purpose is to support those affected by a loved one’s drinking habit. Meetings focus on healing and growth for members, not on changing someone else’s addictive behaviors. Al-Anon members learn to understand their needs better and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

You can walk into any Al-Anon meeting without signing up, making an appointment or paying a membership fee. This open-door policy means you can participate as your needs and schedule allow, with no obligations or expectations.

A Sanctuary for Those Affected by a Loved One’s Drinking

The emotional turmoil of watching a loved one stuck in the morass of alcohol addiction is a heavy burden, and one you should not bear alone. The Al-Anon community has given many people the resolve to face these challenges with newfound hope and resilience.

At New Found Life, we recognize the role families play in addiction recovery. That’s why we offer our Family Addiction Educational Series, designed to engage family members in their loved one’s healing. These workshops are the culmination of collaboration with some of the most highly regarded clinicians and professionals in the addiction industry. Over 30 years, we’ve developed and refined our program to cater specifically to families’ unique needs.

In our educational workshops, families gain a comprehensive understanding of the disease of addiction and what it takes to recover, empowering you to support your loved one while prioritizing your growth and well-being.

New Found Life believes in involving family members in recovery. If you or someone close to your heart needs additional help, take the first step and reach out today.