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Did you know that Alateen provides peer-based support for teens affected by alcoholism?
Like the peer-based groups, Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon, which supports adults affected by alcoholism, its sister organisation Alateen provides similar support to teens who live with a parent or another adult with a drinking problem.
Originating in the US in 1957, locally, Alateen has been active for more than six decades.
The support groups are open to children aged 13 to 18.
Also read: The sobering truth about a drunk parent
"Research shows that for every problem drinker, the lives of 16 other people are affected," says the Public Outreach Coordinator for Al-Anon Family Groups, South Africa. "This includes everyone in the family, friends, work colleagues, and especially children of all ages".
Meetings are held two to three times weekly by SAPS cleared, certified Alateen Group Sponsors who lead teens through talks with their peers facing similar struggles.
According to Alanon.org.za, the programme helps teens to understand that:
- Compulsive drinking is a disease.
- They can detach themselves emotionally from the drinker's problems while continuing to love the person.
- They are not the cause of anyone else's drinking or behaviour.
- They cannot change or control anyone but themselves.
- They have spiritual and intellectual resources to develop their potential, no matter what happens at home.
- They can build satisfying and rewarding life experiences for themselves.
For more information visit www.alanongauteng.co.za.
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