Alcohol Self-Help Groups List (Free or Very Inexpensive)

This alcohol self-help groups lists ones that are free. All groups are non-12 step. It has links to more information along with other resources.

I. HAMS alcohol harm reduction program

HAMS stands for Harm reduction, Abstinence, and Moderation Support. HAMS harm reduction is effective in reducing alcohol and drug problems. This is important. Many people find AA, NA, and other 12-step meetings to be embarrassing. They’re also time-consuming. And, worst of all, they’re generally ineffective.

Learn more about HAMS.

II. LifeRing

LifeRing believes that every alcoholic has the power to achieve lasting sobriety. It’s hard. There are often setbacks. But in every alcoholic there exists the desire to find lasting sobriety. LifeRing works by giving positive reinforcement to abilities that people already have. The process is “Empowering Your Sober Self.”

Visit LifeRing.

III. Moderation Management

Moderation Management (MM) is a behavior change program and support group network. It’s for people concerned about their drinking and want to make positive changes. MM empowers people to accept personal responsibility for choosing and keeping their own path. It can be either moderation or abstinence.

MM is one of the oldest alcohol self-help groups.

Visit Moderation Management.

IV. Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS)

Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS) is a nonprofit network of groups of peers. Its sole goal is to help people achieve and maintain abstinence. It can be from alcoholism, drugs or food.

Discover more about Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS).

V. SMART Recovery

SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training). This is a free addiction recovery support group network. It teaches self-empowerment based on scientific principles and evidence. SMART has both face-to-face group meetings and daily on-line meetings.

Want to learn more about SMART Recovery?

VI. Women for Sobriety

Women for Sobriety is a non-profit organization that helps women overcome addictions. It addresses the special needs of women in recovery. These include the need to feel self-value and self-worth. Also the need to eliminate feelings of guilt and shame.

Learn much more about Women for Sobriety self-help.

Alcohol Self-Help Groups

Readings

- Anderson, K. How to Change Your Drinking: a Harm Reduction Guide.
- Christopher, J. How to Stay Sober.
- ______. SOS Sobriety.
- Kishline A. The Moderation Management Guide.
- MacGregor, S. and Herring, R. The SMART Pilot Project.
- Nicolaus, M. Empowering Your Sober Self.
- National Newsletter for S.O.S.
- Rotgers, F., et al. Responsible Drinking. A Moderation Management Approach.
- Sobriety Handbook. The SOS Way.
- S.O.S. International Newsletter.

Note: Alcohol Self-Help Groups

- Know of any non-12 step alcohol self-help groups that should be added? If so, contact hansondj [at sign] potsdam [dot] edu/ Thank you for your help!