Al-Anon is a program that is drenched in the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. This program is for adults who have relatives or friends who struggle with the disease of addiction to alcohol. The Al-Anon meeting’s primary focus is on alcoholism or issues related to alcohol abuse. This type of 12 Step meeting discusses the impact that a friend or loved one may have experienced in relation to their relative or friend’s drinking.
The meetings utilize Al-Anon literature and principles through the guidance of other Al-Anon members. An Al-Anon meeting is generally appropriate for someone who has been affected by someone in their life who was an alcoholic.
When attending a meeting it is important to remember that this type of 12 Step meeting is a mutual support group. Those that attend an Al-Anon meeting share as equals. If you attend a meeting it is important to understand that these meetings are anonymous. The anonymity of the meeting is to support others by respecting their confidentiality when sharing. This ensures that anything that is said during that meeting is never shared outside of that meeting time.
Meetings like Al-Anon can be very beneficial during the healing process. It is recommended that if you would like to try going to an Al-Anon meeting you should go to at least six meetings before you can decide whether an Al-Anon meeting is right for you.
At New Directions for Women, we host a weekly Al-Anon meeting for members in the community. You can find a meeting near you by visiting the Al-Anon Alateen website at: www.al-anon.alateen.org. There are meetings that are available to you online or around the world. This support group can be helpful because you will learn from others who may have shared an experience similar to yours.
New Directions for Women is a treatment facility located in California that offers help to women of all ages, pregnant women in any trimester, and women with children. Founded in 1977, our courageous and visionary founders asked for the help of Newport Beach Junior League members to fulfill their vision of a tranquil home-like facility that would treat women with dignity and respect. Our caring admissions counselors are available 24/7 to take your call and answer any questions you may have on getting help. Reach us by phone at 800-93-WOMEN. We can help. Stay in the loop with New Directions for Women by connecting with us on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn.
