HOW AL-ANON WORKS
In Al-Anon/Alateen, members do not give direction or advice to other members. Instead, they share their personal experiences and stories, and invite other members to “take what they like and leave the rest”—that is, to determine for themselves what lesson they could apply to their own lives.
We believe alcoholism is a family disease because it affects all the members emotionally and sometimes physically. Although we cannot change or control the drinker, we can detach from their problems while continuing to love them.
We do not discuss religion or become involved with any outside organizations. Our sole topic is the solution of our problems. We are always careful to protect each other’s anonymity as well as that of all Alateens and A.A. members.
By applying the Twelve Steps to ourselves, we begin to grow mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. We will always be grateful to Al-Anon for giving us a wonderful, healthy program to live by and enjoy.
The best place to learn how Al-Anon/Alateen works is at a meeting in your local community. Personal contact is an important element in the healing process. These Web page selections may give you some encouragement to visit your first meeting.
AL-ANON IS
- A fellowship of relatives and friend of alcoholics who believe their lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking.
- A mutual support recovery program based on the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous.
- A nonprofessional fellowship where members share their experience, strength, and hope to solve their common problems.
- A program with the anonymity of all Al-Anon, Alateen, and AA members protected.
- A spiritual program that is compatible with all religious beliefs or none.
- A program with the single purpose of helping families and friends of alcoholics, whether the alcoholic is still drinking or not.
AL-ANON IS NOT
- Allied with any sect, denomination, political entity, organization, or institution.
- Involved in any outside issues–neither endorses nor opposes any cause.
- Affiliated with AA, although both fellowships cooperate with one another.
- Considered a religious organization, treatment center, provider, counseling agency, or teaching program.
- Conducted by professionals.
- Intended as a replacement for professional treatment or counseling.