Al-Anon Model Of Addiction

The disease model of addiction is intrinsic of Al-Anon, based on its relationship with Alcoholics Anonymous and it too is founded on the disease model of addiction. The disease model posits that alcoholism is caused by an abnormal condition. Thus, the exposure to the substance is viewed as the fundamental cause of psychological addiction (Al-Anon Family Group, 2008; Alcoholics Anonymous, Jenkins 2016). In this model of therapy, addiction is a disease in which individuals are susceptible in their mental or physical strength to fight the disease. Accordingly, treatment concentrates on the individual’s yielding to and direction from a higher power and a spiritual journey toward recovery (Jenkins & Finner-Williams, 2016). The self-support interventions of Al-Anon embody the Twelve Steps, from A.A., which are outlines to make progress. Involvement in a support group is essential for encouraging relationships, for the recognition of differing perspectives, and connecting with God (Al-Anon Family Group, 2008; Alcoholics Anonymous, Jenkins & Finner-Williams,
I thought individuals attended Al-Anon to find help for their addicted loved one. But, instead, they find help for themselves. Reflecting about what was shared at the meetings, there comes a time when a loved one tries to change their responses to the addict’s behavior, but find that change is harder than foreseen. When the family or core relationships of an addict get healthier (whether or not the addict is receiving treatment or sober), they can extinguish the isolation that addiction encamps around its victims. Members of Al-Anon find that inner strength and self-worth are increased, they begin to feel their feelings, they can rebuild and take responsibility for their lives, and can start to set healthy boundaries (Al-Anon Family Groups,