Not everyone trapped by alcohol is an alcoholic

Al-Anon

There is help for families affected by problem drinking.

In extreme cases, an alcoholic may be homeless, but many live in families that are struggling because of the challenges that come with problem drinking.

Family members become lonely, isolated, ashamed and depressed. They feel that life has become unmanageable or unbearable. Al-Anon-Alateen Family Groups is a support programme for people who are living with or have lived with the problems of someone else's drinking.

Al-Anon and Alateen for young people offer understanding and personal growth - whether the alcoholic is still drinking or not. There are free of charge meetings daily around Auckland. To find one visit online here.

Members share their experiences of applying the Al-Anon principles to their lives. There is no advice given or specific direction suggested.

Below are a few thoughts from people who have tried Al-Anon:

"I believed that the only thing I needed to be happy and safe was for my husband to stop drinking."

"My life had got so out of control not knowing what my state my daughter would be in when I got home."

"I thought I was strong enough to deal with this on my own...After trying everything, I went to my first meeting." Learn more