Alcoholics face a difficult decision when they finally come to the realization that they need help. Many prefer to try a self-help approach to alcohol rehabilitation. There are several self-help programs to choose from. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is, without a doubt, the most popular self-help group dedicated to alcohol rehabilitation. It is the largest self-help group and is dedicated to assisting an alcoholic deal with alcoholism on a day-to-day basis.

Alcoholics Anonymous uses the twelve-step program written by its founding members. Group meetings are held in local communities in several locations, and a person can go to as many as he or she wishes. Newcomers usually are introduced to the buddy system shortly after attending their first meeting. The buddy system pairs up a newcomer with a sponsor who has been sober for a year or more. The sponsor gives support on a 24 hour a day basis.

Members have a group involvement plan in place to assist any fellow member who may be susceptible to relapse. Fees are not charged to members and the meetings are attended voluntarily. Members or the public in general can make a donation to AA whenever they wish.

AA has a 12-step program that is based on self-restraint and taking responsibility for ones actions. Addicts must admit they are defenseless over their addiction to alcohol. The addict turns their destiny over to a higher power. Furthermore, the addict must follow the steps to scrutinize the effects of their behavior and take responsibility for their actions and make amends.

People requiring alcohol rehab must first get over the powerlessness they feel over the substance controlling their life. In order to recover the respect of their family and friends, one must make a personal decision to seek help. If an alcoholic uses that help to the fullest degree, there is a tremendous chance that he or she will recover.