For those who have a family member or friend who has begun the Twelve Step recovery process, this is good news. But the book Alcoholics Anonymous cautions, "Let families realize as they start their journey, that all will not be fair weather." (p. 122) When someone launches into a recovery program many things about their own life and family interactions will shift. Most of these changes are for the better, but some may be unsettling or in need of explanation and negotiation.

 

We suggest you visit our meeting to find out more about the group and recovery process. We also recommend obtaining a copy of the book Alcoholics Anonymous which has been essential in our recovery and which we sell at cost at our meeting. Reading through it will help you understand your loved one's illness, and their recovery efforts. In particular, we recommend the chapter entitled "The Family Afterwards." It is filled with practical recommendations for the recovering person and their family (and friends, by extension) Often a little understanding and communication can go a long way toward avoiding difficulties.

In our group, as in early AA, we seek to make sure family members feel included in the recovery process. To read more about our recommendations in this area, see Family Inclusion in Recovery.