What to expect from an Al-anon or Alateen Meeting

Al-anon and Alateen are good programs or family members and friends of an addict or alcoholic. For those who are not aware of how the twelve step programs work, this is an excellent place to learn. These programs are designed very similar to the twelve step programs of Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. The meetings allow its members to share their experiences with one another. Rather than give advice, they listen to one another's stories and decide for themselves to take and apply whatever lessons they chose to from what they hear. THe meetings offer contact with others experiencing very similar circumstances. Members often start to see commonality right away. Alateen is the same as Al-anon but its members are teens. Some people experience discomfort attending the first meeting. Some things you can expect from the meetings are: readings and discussions about the twelve steps, learning about "higher power", listening to others share their experiences, you will be given an opportunity to share, but you are free to say "I pass," and the opportunity to learn how you can help the alcoholic or addict in your life while helping yourself.

Al-Anon family groups. (2014). Strength and hope for friends and families of problem drinkers. Retrieved from:http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/about-group-meetings/what-can-i-expect