Alateen: Support & Resources for Teens Affected by Alcoholism

Alateen is a fellowship for adolescents (ages 12–18) impacted by someone else's drinking. Part of Al-Anon Family Groups (founded 1957), which adapts the 12 Steps of AA for families and friends of alcoholics.

What Alateen Provides

• Peer Support: Meetings (in-person, virtual, hybrid) where teens share experience, strength, hope.
• Education: Understanding alcoholism as a disease; the "3 Cs" (didn't Cause it, can't Control it, can't Cure it).
• Coping Tools: Detachment with love, setting boundaries, self-care, communication skills.
• Literature: Alateen-specific books, pamphlets, daily readers (e.g., Alateen: A Day at a Time).
• Sponsorship: Older teen/young adult mentor with program experience.
• Anonymity & Safety: Confidential; no adults in meetings except certified Alateen Group Sponsors (Al-Anon members trained for safety).

Access

• Find meetings: al-anon.org → "Find a Meeting" → filter "Alateen".
• Virtual meetings available globally.
• No dues/fees; self-supporting through voluntary contributions.
• Schools, counselors, pediatricians can refer.

Why It Matters

Parental alcoholism increases risk for anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use, academic/social difficulties. Alateen reduces isolation, builds resilience, and interrupts intergenerational cycles.

If you're a teen affected by a loved one's drinking, you are not alone. Alateen is a safe place to heal.