The Al-Anon Family Groups are a fellowship of relatives and friends of alcoholics who share their experience, strength and hope in order to solve their common problems. We believe alcoholism is a family illness and that changed attitudes can aid recovery.
Al-Anon is not allied with any sect, denomination, political entity, organization or institution; neither endorses nor opposes any cause. There are no dues for membership. Al-Anon is self-supporting through its own voluntary contributions.
Al-Anon has but one purpose: to help families of alcoholics. We do this by practicing the Twelve Steps, by welcoming and giving comfort to families of alcoholics and by giving understanding and encouragement to the alcoholics.
The Al-Anon Family Groups are a fellowship of relatives and friends of alcoholics who share their experience, strength and hope in order to solve their common problems. We believe alcoholism is a family illness and that changed attitudes can aid recovery.
Al-Anon is not allied with any sect, denomination, political entity, organization or institution; neither endorses nor opposes any cause. There are no dues for membership. Al-Anon is self-supporting through its own voluntary contributions.
Al-Anon has but one purpose: to help families of alcoholics. We do this by practicing the Twelve Steps, by welcoming and giving comfort to families of alcoholics and by giving understanding and encouragement to the alcoholics.
Al-Anon was co-founded in 1951 by Anne B. and Lois W. (wife of AA co-founder Bill W.). Before the formation of Al-Anon, independent groups of families of alcoholics met. “Bill thought the[se] groups could be consolidated and that Lois should be the one to take it on.”
Al-Anon adopted the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous for their own use, changing the word “alcoholics” in the 12th step to “others” (“we tried to carry this message to others”).
Although people commonly turn to Al-Anon for help in stopping another’s drinking, the organization recognizes that the friends and families of alcoholics are often traumatized themselves and in need of emotional support and understanding.
Here are some key aspects of Al-Anon:
- Understanding and Support: Al-Anon offers a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and feelings with others who understand the challenges of living with someone who has an alcohol problem.
- The 12 Steps: The program is based on the 12-step recovery model, which emphasizes personal growth, self-reflection, and community support.
- Focus on Self-Care: Al-Anon encourages members to focus on their own well-being rather than trying to control or change the behavior of the alcoholic.
- Anonymity: Confidentiality and anonymity are core principles, fostering an environment where members can share openly without fear of judgment.
- Literature and Resources: Al-Anon provides various literature, including books and pamphlets, to help members understand the effects of alcoholism and how to cope.
- Meetings: Regular meetings, both in-person and virtual, offer ongoing support and connection with others who are experiencing similar challenges.
- Spiritual Growth: The program promotes spiritual development, encouraging members to find their own understanding of a higher power.
- Empowerment: Members learn to reclaim their own lives and make positive changes by recognizing that they cannot control the alcoholic’s behavior.
- Understanding and Support: Al-Anon offers a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and feelings with others who understand the challenges of living with someone who has an alcohol problem.
- The 12 Steps: The program is based on the 12-step recovery model, which emphasizes personal growth, self-reflection, and community support.
- Focus on Self-Care: Al-Anon encourages members to focus on their own well-being rather than trying to control or change the behavior of the alcoholic.
- Anonymity: Confidentiality and anonymity are core principles, fostering an environment where members can share openly without fear of judgment.
- Literature and Resources: Al-Anon provides various literature, including books and pamphlets, to help members understand the effects of alcoholism and how to cope.
- Meetings: Regular meetings, both in-person and virtual, offer ongoing support and connection with others who are experiencing similar challenges.
- Spiritual Growth: The program promotes spiritual development, encouraging members to find their own understanding of a higher power.
- Empowerment: Members learn to reclaim their own lives and make positive changes by recognizing that they cannot control the alcoholic’s behavior.
Core principles:
- Focus on Self-Care: Al-Anon emphasizes the importance of self-care for family members and friends of alcoholics. Members learn that they cannot change the drinker’s behavior but can work on their own reactions and well-being.
- Detachment with Love: One of the key concepts is “detachment with love,” which encourages members to care for their loved ones without enabling harmful behaviors.