How Does It Work?

The message of Al-Anon and Alateen is one of hope. It is the story of men, women and children who once felt helpless, lost, and lonely because of another's alcoholism. Today these men, women, and children have courage and confidence. They have found understanding friends. They have learned what to do to help themselves - and this can indirectly help their alcoholic relatives, loved ones, and friends, whether sober or not.

Alateen (Al-Anon for younger members) is a vital part of the Al-Anon Family Groups' program. Young people seeking help with problems that arise when alcoholism afflicts a parent, another close relative, or a friend meet to exchange experiences and to gain and understanding of themselves and the alcoholic. This helps their own personal development and can help stabilize troubled thinking resulting from close association with an alcoholic.

"Al-Anon is where I lost my vanity and found some pride." - Pat R., Westchester, OH

Reprinted with the permission of The Forum, Al-Anon Family Group Hdgts., Inc., Virginia Beach, VA