The highly regarded Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is the largest and most widely known self-help organization for alcoholics in the United States. There are approximately 53,665 AA groups and 1,213,269 members in the U.S. and around 2,000,000 members worldwide (AA Fact File 2007 [latest available]). These numbers can only be approximated because, due to its nature, AA has never attempted to keep formal membership statistics. AA has a wide following and the organization has helped many people who suffer from alcoholism.

Despite the impressive numbers, AA is not the best choice for every alcoholic. For example, minorites are under-represented in AA. According to AA's own literature, 85.1% of the members are Caucasian, with the next largest group, African American, at only 5.7% (AA Membership Survey 2007 [latest available]). These membership statistics do not accurately reflect the actual demographics of those who suffer from alcoholism. Even though they might want to seek help, this can make it very difficult for minorities to feel comfortable in the AA environment.

An emphasis on spirituality or religion also contributes to AA not being suitable for every alcoholic. This is absolutely not to say that AA requires its members to be "religious", however, AA literature and some meetings do cite the use of "God" or a "Higher Power". Some people have no problem with this, while others are completely put off altogether. Unfortunately this can translate into some alcoholics not seeking the help they need.

Despite these points, AA is a highly regarded organization, and since 1936 it has provided followship to many alcoholics, assisted with their recovery, and helped them to achieve, and maintain, sobriety. However, the AA way is not the only way. Here are some other groups for alcoholics that you might not be as familiar with.

Alcoholism Self-Help Resources

Self-Management and Recovery Training (SMART) - The cornerstone of SMART is a four point program to help the alcoholic learn motivational strategies, how to cope with urges, utilize problem solving skills and learn how to create balance in their lives. There are over 450 weekly face to face meetings around the world, and over 16 online meetings per week. The SMART website also offers an active forum for members.

Rational Recovery (RR) - RR was founded in 1986 by Jack Trimpey, LCSW, a recovering alcoholic. RR focuses more on a concept, as opposed to a program. RR is very private, there are no steps, no sponsors, no public disclosure. RR emphasizes rational self-examination, traditional individual and family values and the healing of family and personal relationships.

Secular Organization for Sobriety (SOS) - founded by James Christopher, a recovering alcoholic, and the son of an alcoholic, SOS is an alternative recovery method for those who feel out of place with other 12 step programs. SOS takes a completely secular approach to recovery and maintains that sobriety is not related to spirituality or religion.

Women for Sobriety (WFS) - as the name implies is an abstinence based self-help group for women alcoholics. WFS was founded in 1976 by the late Dr. Jean Kirkpatrick, Ph.D., a recognized expert on alcoholism. Dr. Kirkpatrick founded WFS based on her personal experience and on the belief that the treatment needs of women alcoholics are different than those of men. note: It appears WFS now has a Men for Sobriety group as well.

Each group has pros and cons that must be carefully considered and each group offers a unique perspective. Some individuals find it beneficial to participate in two groups concurrently. For example, some women belong to WFS online but also attend AA meetings in orders to get some face to face time with other women alcoholics, especially if there are no WFS meeting in their area.

The bottom line is that there are multiple resources available to those who want to get help for alcoholism. No one way is the only right way. There are no wrong ways to seek help. The important thing is just to choose one and try it out. If it is not a good fit then try another. There are also local resources available through your community. Treatment centers are also widely available. Some treatment centers offer both in patient and out patient programs. In addition, medications like Naltrexone are used to reduce alcohol cravings in some patients.

*Disclaimer*

I do not in any way recommend or endorse any one particular group or alternative over another. It is up to you to decide which, if any, of these groups or organizations are the right choice for you.