Support yourself first – Support and love from family and friends are a critical part of the alcohol recovery process. Support for the family and friends of the recovering alcoholic is of equal importance. That is why groups like Alateen have arisen – to help outsiders understand the addiction and how best to support the alcohol recovery process. It is important for them to understand that they are not at fault for their friend or family member’s addiction.

Intervene – Often, the support of friends and family is most needed during the first step of the alcohol recovery phase – admitting there is a problem and seeking professional help. This can take the form of an intervention, where friends and family gather together to present a unified front of love and concern for the alcoholic in a non-confrontational manner. This process can also take the form of pleading from family, or even ultimatums if the situation gets bad enough.

Educate – Read everything you can on alcoholism and alcohol recovery process. This will further your understanding of what the patient is experiencing in detox, counseling and treatment. It will also help you understand how best to offer support during the aftercare phase, after release from the alcohol recovery treatment center.

Don’t judge, don’t enable – Never stop expressing your faith in the patient’s ability to recover from an alcohol addiction. At the same time, be firm and let them know you care enough to hold them accountable. You can do this in a non-judgmental, loving way. Refrain from alcohol use and from referring to alcohol in conversation. Consider attending religious services together or getting involved in a volunteer service project or community education class. While staying busy is a good distraction, try not to overdo it, as the patient will still be processing a lot mentally and emotionally during aftercare.