CONTACT INFORMATION
Here are credible support groups and information sources for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)—organized so you can quickly find what fits your situation (your own recovery vs. supporting someone else, in-person vs. online, clinical info vs. peer support).
Understanding AUD (reliable info sources)
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) www.nih.gov
Evidence-based info on AUD, treatment options, and statistics
Includes the Alcohol Treatment Navigator to find care
MedlinePlus
Clear medical overview of AUD symptoms and treatments
Healthline
Accessible explanations of treatment, coping strategies, and recovery options
These are useful for learning what AUD is and what evidence-based treatment looks like. AUD is considered a chronic brain condition but treatable with therapy, medication, and support systems
Major Peer Support Groups (free & widely available)
1. Traditional / 12-step
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) www.aa.org
Most widely available (in-person + online meetings)
Uses the “12 Steps” and peer sponsorship
Strong community support, often lifelong
2. Non-12-step (alternative approaches)
These are good if AA doesn’t fit your style:
SMART Recovery www.smartrecovery.org/
Focuses on cognitive behavioral tools and self-management
LifeRing Secular Recovery www.lifering.org
Secular, self-empowerment approach
Recovery Dharma www.recoverydharma.org
Uses mindfulness and meditation principles
Women for Sobriety www.womenforsobriety.org
Focuses on emotional growth and empowerment
👉 Different groups use different philosophies—there’s no single “correct” path.
3. Online / app-based communities
Sober Grid
In The Rooms
Soberistas
Online groups can be especially helpful if you want anonymity or flexibility.
Support for Family & Friends
AUD affects more than just the individual.
Al-Anon www.al-anon.org
Adult Children of Alcoholics www.adultchildren.org
These groups help loved ones cope, set boundaries, and reduce stress.
Professional & Clinical Support
Support groups are helpful—but sometimes not enough on their own.
Therapy (CBT, motivational interviewing)
Medication (e.g., naltrexone, acamprosate)
Outpatient or inpatient programs
A healthcare provider can guide you to the right level of care.
What people often find helpful (real-world insight)
From community discussions:
“It doesn’t matter how you do it… just the intention behind it.”
This reflects a broader truth: different approaches work for different people—and combining methods (e.g., therapy + group support) is common.
How to choose the right support
Consider:
Do you want structured steps (AA) or skills-based tools (SMART)?
Do you prefer spiritual, secular, or mindfulness-based approaches?
Do you need in-person accountability or online flexibility?
Are you seeking help for yourself or a loved one?