Where Can You Find Support?

Whether or not the person you are living with who is addicted to drugs or alcohol receives the treatment they need to start recovery, you will need support. Take comfort in knowing that support is everywhere.

Al-Anon and Alateen are confidential support groups that have regular meetings located nationwide. Some people avoid support groups for fear that the word will get out that they've attended. One of the basic principles of Al-Anon and Alateen is anonymity. To be effective, people who attend meetings need to feel assured that the stories they share will remain among the people who attend the meeting and not go any further.

During a meeting, no one is forced to offer any information they don't feel comfortable with. If you feel like just sitting and listening to other people talk about their situations, that is fine. No one will force you to speak. However, many times after attending a few meetings and seeing that they aren't the only person going through this problem, people feel comfortable talking about their spouse or child's addiction.

You can find information regarding groups like Al-Anon and Alateen by looking in your phone book or by calling your local hospital and speaking with a counselor. Many times there are group meetings that take place right at the hospital. Also, visit Al-Anon and Alateen online at http://www.al-anon.alateen.org. From the website you will find helpful information on alcoholism and information about how to contact your local chapter to get meeting times.

Even if you don't feel comfortable going to an Al-Anon or Alateen support group, you can seek out the support and help in other ways. Seeing a family counselor or counselor trained in dealing with drug and alcohol addictions can help you change your behaviors so that you can cope with what is happening in your home. Some people seek a more spiritual way to deal with their spouse or child who is addicted by seeing a family pastor to discuss their problems.

The point is, a person who is dealing with a loved one who is addicted to drugs or alcohol does not have to deal with this problem alone. There is as much or as little support as you want or need to help you deal with your loved one's addiction. As long as you are committed to changing your life for the better, you will see it through.