Millions of Americans struggle with alcohol dependence, so many resources are needed to help them achieve and maintain long-term recovery. After completing an alcohol addiction treatment program, support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Al-Anon can provide ongoing help for those in recovery and their families. The distinction between Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon might not be clear; they sound very similar after all. But in fact, they are not the same thing. Each of these organizations was created in response to the high incidence of alcohol abuse and addiction. However, the audience for each is different. Knowing the differences between Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon can help you determine which would be most appropriate for you and your loved ones.
At TruHealing Centers, our alcohol detox centers can start you on your path to sober living. Once you have gotten through withdrawal, you can transition to one of our alcohol addiction treatment programs to continue your recovery journey with individual, group, and family therapy. We can connect you with local support groups like AA and Al-Anon to help keep you on your recovery path throughout your life, long after treatment is complete. Call us today at [Direct] or complete our online form to learn how we can provide you with the tools and resources you need for lasting recovery.
Support Groups to Help People Heal from Alcohol Addiction
Both AA and Al-Anon are support groups. However, AA is for people struggling with or recovering from alcohol use disorder, while Al-Anon is for people whose family members have histories of alcohol use disorder. Although addiction affects each group differently, there are some similarities, such as:
- Both groups provide support for those experiencing issues with alcohol abuse, whether their own or that of a loved one.
- Both groups nod to anonymity in their titles because the information shared in the rooms is not divulged to the general public.
- Both groups are free and open to the public.
- Both groups are meant to allow people to come to terms with the effects of addiction and talk with people who can relate.
Therefore, the main distinct difference between AA and Al-Anon is the audience that they serve.
Alcoholics Anonymous Supports Recovery
Through AA, people who have struggled or are struggling with addiction themselves can find solidarity and common ground in others with addiction. AA supports people in recovery by:
- Providing a safe, nonjudgmental space to talk about their addiction
- Supporting them through temptation and relapse
- Offering guidance and sponsors to help keep them focused on recovery
By connecting with a community of others who can relate to their recovery experience, many people find that lasting recovery is within their reach.
Al-Anon Helps Family Members with Recovery
Addiction is referred to as a “family disease” because it affects the person with addiction and those close to them. People whose loved ones struggle with addiction have a very particular experience. Loved ones with addiction often make family members feel:
- Unsure how to help
- Pulled into toxic or uncomfortable situations
- Broken trust
- Unable to repair relationships
Through shared experiences, members of Al-Anon can share what it is like to watch someone close to them experience addiction with people who understand. They can also give each other helpful advice on how to support a loved one with an addiction.
Connect with Support Groups with TruHealing Centers
There is hope if you or a loved one struggles with drug and alcohol addiction or a mental health disorder. TruHealing Centers across the country offer high-quality treatment for substance use and mental health disorders. We will help you build a life in recovery and set you up with a system of support through support groups like AA and Al-Anon. Call an admissions specialist today by calling [Direct] or completing our online form to start one of our addiction treatment programs.