While most of us have heard that alcoholism is a disease, too few recognize it as a "family disease" which may emotionally, spiritually and often physically affect three or four people in each home, each office or workplace, or each group of friends.

Al-Anon Family Groups, Al-Anon and Alateen give us the assurance that no situation is too difficult and no unhappiness too great to be lessened if we are willing to keep an open mind. With the understanding that alcoholism is a disease, and with the realization that we are powerless over it, as well as over other people, we are ready to make constructive decisions regarding our own lives. Only then can we be of help to others.

Without support and spiritual help, living around or with a problem drinker is too much for most of us. We may become nervous, irritable and resentful. Our thinking often becomes confused, and our perspective distorted. A change in our attitude may be of boundless help and is often the force for good that finally inspires an alcoholic to seek help.

The Al-Anon program is a spiritual way of life based on the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. Study of this program and its Twelve Steps strengthens us and guides us in solving many difficult problems, some of which we might once have thought were hopeless.