When someone is struggling with alcohol or substance use, their family and friends often suffer quietly alongside them. Al‑Anon is a long-standing, peer-led support organization created specifically for people affected by another person’s drinking. It offers a compassionate space to share experiences, gain perspective, and begin personal healing.

A Brief History

Al‑Anon was founded in 1951 by Lois Wilson, the wife of Bill Wilson—one of the co-founders of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Recognizing the deep toll alcoholism took on families, Lois envisioned a parallel program that could support those closest to the person struggling. What began as a small circle of spouses has grown into a global fellowship with over 24,000 groups in more than 130 countries.

Though Al‑Anon was originally focused on alcohol use, many people now attend meetings to find support around a loved one’s substance use of any kind.

Structure and What to Expect

Al‑Anon meetings are peer-led and follow a 12-step model, adapted from Alcoholics Anonymous but tailored for loved ones. Meetings are non-religious, free to attend, and open to anyone affected by someone else’s drinking or drug use. Many people attend weekly meetings for ongoing support.

There are no requirements to speak, and no advice is given. Instead, members share their own experiences, providing mutual support through shared understanding. This structure helps reduce isolation and fosters self-reflection, resilience, and emotional boundaries.

There are also specialized groups, including:

• Alateen – for teenagers affected by someone else’s substance use

• Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA) – for those raised in homes with alcohol or substance misuse

• Open meetings – which welcome newcomers and curious family members

• Online meetings – offering flexibility and privacy

Why We Recommend It

At Pathwork Therapy, we believe healing extends beyond the individual. Family members often need their own space to process, find community, and learn how to care for themselves while navigating a loved one’s substance use. Al‑Anon can be a powerful complement to therapy by offering:

• A deeper understanding of substance use and its ripple effects

• Relief from feelings of guilt, shame, or helplessness

• Tools to create healthy boundaries and reduce enabling behaviors

• Community support that continues outside the therapy room

Al‑Anon reminds participants that they didn’t cause their loved one’s substance use, they can’t control it, and they can’t cure it—but they can take steps toward their own healing.

Learn more or find a local or virtual meeting at al-anon.org.