You may have heard a few times, “You should check out an Al-Anon meeting!” To which you might refute: “I’m good, thank you.”
But, is Al-Anon worth your time? Is it really for you or is it only for loved ones of heroin addicts or a more ‘serious’ addiction?
In this article, we will do our best to explain with Al-Anon is, how it can help you, and where you can find help… If it is something you need.
A Quick Quiz
- Is one of your loved ones actively abusing drugs or alcohol or both?
- Did you grow up with an active or dry alcoholic or drug addict?
- Does your heart ache when you think about where your loved one is? What they’re doing? How they are doing?
- Do you find yourself struggling to say ‘no’ to your alcoholic/addict’s requests or inquiries?
- Do you find yourself telling lies to cover up your loved one’s drinking or using?
- Are you afraid that something you do or say will set your loved one off on a drinking or using bout?
- Do you feel like most people don’t understand your problems, but you wish they did?
- Are your plans often interrupted by your loved one’s drinking or using?
If 1 yes answer
If you answered yes to 0 or 1 of these questions, you may need Al-Anon.
2-4 yes answers
If you answered yes to 2 to 4 of these questions, you need Al-Anon.
5-8 yes answers
If you answered yes to 5 to 8 of these questions, you definitely need Al-Anon.
What is Al-Anon?
Al-Anon is a community of individuals with friends, family, or loved ones who suffer from alcoholism and addiction.
Al-Anon provides a safe place for these people to talk about the effects of their loved one’s alcoholism and addiction without fear of dealing with the alcoholic or addict themselves in the midst of their disease.
Generally, family and friends of alcoholics find it difficult to discuss matters relating to alcohol and drugs with a practicing alcoholic, which is why Al-Anon is a safe alternative.
Anonymity is the foundation of Al-Anon groups; no one will know you attend Al-Anon and your participation will not interfere with your day-to-day life. In keeping with the spirit of ‘giving back,’ Al-Anon is free. There are no dues and no fees for attending a meeting as all participation if voluntary.
How can Al-Anon help you?
- You will be surrounded by individuals who understand what you’re going through.
- You will develop a community of friends who can guide you on the path to sanity and contentment.
- You will learn how to relinquish the tight grasp you have on your alcoholic/addict and learn to practice healthy love and boundaries.
- You will find a peace of mind despite the situational chaos.
- If you are in a relationship with an alcoholic/addict, you will learn how to break the pattern of an abusive relationship.
- If you are a son or daughter of an alcoholic/addict, you will learn how to let go of resentments and re-write your future.
So, you need Al-Anon… Now what?
Now you find a meeting near you that suits your schedule by visiting this link: https://al-anon.org/find-a-meeting
There are meetings all around the United States with wonderful communities in which you can grow and flourish.
For more information about Al-Anon, you can visit their website: https://al-anon.org/home
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