For over 55 years, Al-Anon (which includes Alateen for younger members) has been offering strength and hope for friends and families of problem drinkers. It is estimated that each alcoholic affects the lives of at least four other people... alcoholism is truly a family disease. No matter what relationship you have with an alcoholic, whether they are still drinking or not, all who have been affected by someone else’s drinking can find solutions that lead to serenity in the Al-Anon/Alateen fellowship.
This meeting is for each of us to take what we wish and leave the rest. My own growth began when I was able to trust. In the meeting, we offer support by sharing our experience. strength, and hope to assist each other in the process of recovery. When others in the group share their feelings, I begin to get in touch with mine. Al-Anon does not wish to blame but rather to understand the family disease concept of alcoholism. If you are with us for the first time, let me say that we are not here to take your pain away. we are here to support you as you go through it.
— Al-Anon Meeting Introduction
Some useful links:
www.al-anon.alateen.org - The national Al-Anon Family Groups web site.
www.alanonsantabarbara.info - Santa Barbara Al-Anon/Alateen web site.