Al-Anon and AA are companion programs that serve different but related needs. Understanding the difference helps ensure everyone in the family gets the right support.
AA Is for the Person with the Alcohol Problem
Alcoholics Anonymous is designed for people who want to stop drinking. Members share their experiences with alcoholism and work the Twelve Steps to achieve and maintain sobriety.
Al-Anon Is for Their Loved Ones
Al-Anon is designed for the families and friends of alcoholics. Members share their experiences being affected by someone else’s drinking and work the Twelve Steps to find their own peace and recovery.
The Connection
Both programs recognize that alcoholism is a family disease. While AA addresses the addicted person’s recovery, Al-Anon addresses the recovery of everyone around them. Interestingly, both use the Twelve Steps — adapted to their specific focus — because the principles of honesty, acceptance, and personal growth apply to everyone.
Browse AA meetings for those in recovery and Al-Anon meetings for family members, all in our comprehensive meeting directory.
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