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What are Al-Anon meetings and what goes on during one? First of all, Al-Anon is a Twelve Step program for those who are related to or who are friends of problem drinkers and alcoholics. If one has a loved one who is dependent on alcohol, you are most likely suffering from the alcoholic’s lifestyle and have a variety of emotional responses. The main focus of Al-Anon meetings is how to deal with and recover from the impact of a relative or friend’s alcohol addiction. During these meetings, any concerns regarding a member’s relative or friend’s drinking are discussed, and the application of the Al-Anon principles are likewise addressed either through discussions as well as through Al-Anon literature. There are also meeting for teenagers at Alateen groups which focus on the impact on teens and how to cope with someone who drinks or goes back and forth with an alcohol problem Al-Anon meetings are scheduled. They are usually listed per region or district, and online meeting schedules are dubbed as either “open” or “closed.” “Open” meetings are for those interested in Al-Anon, such as first-timers. “Closed” Al-Anon meetings are meant for Al-Anon members as well as individuals who have been able to identify that a relative or friend’s drinking has impacted them considerably. (A branch of Al-Anon known as Alateen meetings are closed to adults. This is so that younger family members can hold their own meetings along with one or two adult Alateen Group Sponsors who can stand by to offer counsel and guidance.) Consider attending if you have been long-affected by an alcoholic or are still being affected. Also you may be around someone who indulges in both alcohol and drugs. This can make home life very difficult. One can feel all the time like they are walking on egg shells. There can also be a fear if someone is sober that they may relpase. All of this is very useful to process in the Al-Anon meetings. Newcomers are enjoined to attend different Al-Anon or Alateen meetings until they find a group that fits their dynamics and connects with their characteristics. There are a variety of groups and you may feel you connect better with one composition versus another. However, remember that there may be different people that attend future sessions within any one group. It is also natural to feel a bit tentative or alienated initially. Many people never dreamed they'd attend a meeting. Local Al-Anon meetings are held all over the United States and Canada, and more information can be found on the main Al-Anon website. If you are still curious and are asking “what are Al-Anon meetings and what can they do for me,” do your research and find a group that can help you find the answers you need. Chances are you need support if you have a drinker in your life. There are many mixed emotionss that arise ranging from compassion to anger. Learn more about Alcoholic Personality Tendencies and articles that discuss issues such as whether Are You An Enabler.
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al-anon, codependency, drinking in family, sober living, alcoholism support,
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