Are you or someone you know struggling with the effects of alcoholism or addiction? It can be a tough journey, and not just for the person dealing with substance abuse but also for their loved ones that care for those with addictions.
That’s where ALANON and NARANON come in to offer support and guidance. These two organizations provide a safe space for families and friends of those struggling with addiction. In today’s post, we’ll delve into what ALANON and NARANON are all about, how they work, and some alternatives to consider.
What Is ALANON?
ALANON is a support group for people who have been affected by someone else’s alcoholism. It was founded in 1951 by the wife of one of Alcoholics Anonymous’ co-founders, Lois Wilson. The purpose of ALANON is to provide a safe and supportive environment where family and friends can come together to share their experiences.
ALANON meetings are typically held once a week and are led by trained facilitators who have also been impacted by someone else’s drinking. Members are encouraged to be open about their feelings and experiences while maintaining confidentiality within the group.
The program is based on the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous but tailored specifically for family members and loved ones who have been affected by another person’s drinking. ALANON teaches its members how to detach with love from the alcoholic, set healthy boundaries, take care of themselves both physically and emotionally, as well as find serenity in difficult circumstances.
ALANON provides an invaluable resource for those struggling with the effects of alcoholism on their lives.
What Is NARANON?
NARANON is a support group for the friends and family members of individuals struggling with addiction to drugs. The organization was founded in 1971 as an offshoot of ALANON, specifically for those affected by narcotics addiction.
Like ALANON, NARANON operates on the principle that addiction is a disease that affects not just the person struggling with substance abuse but also their loved ones. Members attend meetings to share their experiences and offer each other emotional support, encouragement, and hope.
NARANON provides a safe space for people to express their feelings without judgment or criticism. It offers practical advice on how to handle difficult situations related to substance abuse and helps participants develop coping mechanisms.
NARANON meetings typically follow a similar format to ALANON meetings: members start by introducing themselves before sharing stories about how they’ve been impacted by someone else’s addiction. Meetings end with inspirational readings or prayers intended to provide comfort and strength.
While NARANON isn’t necessarily right for everyone, it can be incredibly helpful for anyone feeling overwhelmed or alone in dealing with the effects of addiction on their lives.
How ALANON And NARANON Work
ALANON and NARANON function as support groups for individuals who have loved ones struggling with addiction. These organizations provide a safe space where members can share their experiences, emotions, and insights without fear of judgment or criticism.
The meetings are led by trained facilitators who encourage participants to speak openly and honestly about their struggles. Members offer each other emotional support, practical advice on how to deal with difficult situations, and resources that may help them better understand addiction.
Both ALANON and NARANON operate on the principle of anonymity, and what happens in the group stays in the group.
ALANON is geared towards family members of alcoholics while NARANON supports those affected by drug addiction. Both programs follow the same 12-step program used in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) which involves admitting powerlessness over the addict’s behavior and surrendering control to a higher power.
The goal of ALANON and NARANON is not only to assist participants in coping with the challenges they face but also to promote healing within families impacted by addiction. The shared experiences among group members create a sense of community that helps individuals feel less alone in their struggles.
Alternatives To ALANON And NARANON
While ALANON and NARANON have been proven effective in helping individuals cope with the effects of addiction on themselves and their loved ones, they may not be suitable for everyone. Fortunately, there are other alternatives available that can provide similar support.
One such alternative is SMART Recovery Family & Friends. This program uses a science-based approach to help individuals learn how to effectively communicate with their loved ones struggling with addiction while also practicing self-care techniques.
Another option is Co-Dependents Anonymous (CODA). CODA provides a safe space for individuals who struggle with codependency to come together and share experiences while learning healthy coping mechanisms.
Additionally, online support groups like In The Rooms offer virtual meetings where individuals can connect with others going through similar experiences from the comfort of their own homes.
It’s important to note that finding the right support system is crucial in promoting healing and recovery. It may take trying out different options before finding one that works best for an individual’s unique needs.
Need Support For A Family Member Who Is Addicted?
ALANON and NARANON are two powerful support groups that offer hope and healing to those who love someone with an addiction. Through their meetings, literature, and programs, they provide a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and learn from one another.
While ALANON focuses on supporting family members of alcoholics, NARANON provides similar support for those affected by drug addiction. Both groups have been around for over six decades and have helped countless people find the strength to cope with their loved ones’ addictions.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a loved one’s addiction, consider attending an ALANON or NARANON meeting. These support groups can be incredibly beneficial in helping individuals navigate the complex emotions that come with loving someone who struggles with addiction.
And if you have a family member looking for treatment for an alcohol or drug addiction, please give us a call and we can help. We can be reached at (844) 973-2611. Remember: you don’t have to go through this alone.