Al-Anon Meetings: What to Expect

AL-Anon Meetings what to expect

Drinking doesn’t just affect the drinker. It can also take a toll on friends and loved ones who watch the person abusing alcohol. If you know someone who drinks too much, there are support groups to help you. This guide helps you find Al-Anon Meetings in St. John’s County. 

Who Should Join Al-Anon Meetings?

Al-Anon is perfect for anyone who knows someone who drinks too much. If you have some of the following thoughts or behaviors, then these groups are for you:

  • You worry about someone who drinks too much. Your concern reaches the point where you might search for alcohol in hidden compartments to keep them from drinking more. Or, you might check their breath. 
  • You’ve issued an ultimatum, where you tell the person if they do not stop drinking, you won’t be in their lives anymore.
  • You feel like a failure because no matter what you do they continue to drink. 
  • You might even go out of your way to refrain from spending time with that person, especially in social situations where you know they’ll drink. 
  • They exhibit abusive behavior, or you feel threatened by their actions.
  • Alternatively, you might have to make excuses for someone else’s actions.

If any of these sounds relevant to you, you should check out Al-Anon meetings in St. Augustine.

What Goes on at Al-Anon Meetings?

Meetings are anonymous, so you do not have to worry about others finding out. When you attend, you are free to share with the group your experiences, how you’re feeling, your struggles, and anything else that’s pertinent. During these meetings, you’ll receive supportive advice and learn more about others who share the same experiences you do. Many meetings begin with the reading of The Twelve Steps

Conversely, there are a few things Al-Anon Meetings do not accomplish: they’re not a support group where you workshop ideas to force the person drinking into sobriety. Moreover, it is not a forum to discuss religion. Its goal is to provide strength and hope for friends and families of problem drinkers.

Where Do I Find Al-Anon Meetings in St. John’s County?

You can attend these gatherings at your local churches, hospitals, and clubhouses. Finding them is easy, as you can Google “Al-Anon Meetings in St. Augustine” to see the times and meeting places that work for you. You can also use the Al-Anon Family Groups website to see meetings occurring near you. 

What are the Benefits of Attending?

Attending these meetings can be beneficial because you have the forum to share your experiences, hopes, frustrations, and more. You’ll also join a supportive family group that understands your struggles and is there to provide strength, emotional guidance, and hope. Most importantly, you gain the emphasis that someone else’s drinking is not your fault

A Solution to Drinking

If you struggle with alcohol, know you’re not alone. Over 17 million people have alcohol use disorder. Admitting you have a drinking problem is a sign that you’re willing to take the steps to a sober future. And we can help. Contact us to learn more about our alcohol treatment programs.