There are different types of support programs available to help you stay sober after you recover from alcohol abuse and dependence.

Treatment programs, support groups, and counseling

You can receive ongoing support through aftercare programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). You might want to discuss your need for a particular type of ongoing treatment or support program with your doctor or counselor.

Most alcohol treatment programs offer several different types of therapies, including individual or group counseling and relaxation. Since alcohol abuse and dependence affect the entire family, you and others in your family might also benefit from family therapy. Some people use alcohol to help them cope with family dysfunction. Treating the entire family can help resolve family dysfunction and help the person with alcohol problems stay in recovery.

Family members of people who have problems with alcohol can benefit from going to support groups such as Al-Anon. Other support groups are specially designed for certain age groups, such as Alateen for teens and Alatot for younger children.

If you are considering a treatment program, prepare some questions to ask about the treatment program before you go to visit.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture, including acupuncture of the outer ear (auricular), has been used to treat some people with alcohol abuse and dependence. Although acupuncture might be helpful for some people, there is no scientific proof that it is effective for alcohol problems.

Stress management techniques

Some people find that using stress management techniques during their recovery from alcohol problems is helpful. There is little research to show that using stress management techniques can increase a person's long-term chances of staying sober. But you may find that it improves your overall sense of well-being.

• Exercising. Regular physical activity is one of the most effective stress management techniques.
• Writing. Research shows that expressing yourself in writing can be a very effective way to reduce your stress level.
• Expressing your feelings. Talking, laughing, crying, and expressing anger are normal parts of the emotional healing process.
• Doing something you enjoy. A hobby or other healthy leisure activity that is meaningful to you can help you relax. Volunteer work or work that helps others can be a powerful stress-buster.
• Body-centered relaxation. This includes breathing exercises, muscle relaxation exercises, massage, aroma therapy, yoga, and traditional Chinese relaxation exercises, such as tai chi and qi gong.
• Mindfulness activities. These include learning how to relax your body through self-hypnosis, meditation, or imagery exercises, listening to relaxing music, or using humor to reduce stress.

For more information on stress reduction, see the topic Stress Management.