Dear Friend,

You are often among the first in the community to learn that a problem in the family may be the result of someone's drinking.  Alcoholism is not simply an issue of excessive drinking, it is a disease which affects the drinker as well as his or her family, friends and co-workers...spiritually, mentally and physically.

Al-Anon Family Groups, which includes Alateen for the younger members, is an established community resource for people who have been affected by another's use of alcohol.   Al-Anon consists of nonprofessional mutual support groups in which the identity of all members is protected.

Al-Anon is a spiritual program of recovery and is compatible with all religious beliefs and practices.

The Al-Anon/Alateen program can aid the recovery process for the entire family through hope, comfort and loving interchange among members having a common problem.

When someone turns to you for help and an alcohol related problem is identified, we urge you to suggest that they attend Al-Anon and/or Alateen meetings.  Al-Anon/Alateen can help you help them. 

Reprinted with permission of Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc.,
Virginia Beach, VA