Alcoholism is considered to be a family disease. According to Al-Anon Family Groups, each alcoholic person affects the lives and well-being of at least four other people. If your brother is suffering from alcoholism, you will not only be helping him by taking steps to help him end his addiction, but you will also be helping any immediate family members, such as his children, wife, parents, co-workers and--yourself. It will take courage on your part to help your brother recover from this illness, but it will be an act of love that will prove rewarding in the end.
Step 1
Begin open and honest communication with your brother about his problem with alcohol. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information, you may need to use persistence to break through any type of denial your brother may experience about his addiction.
Step 2
Show your concern by first finding out what your brother needs, but be cautious about giving him money because he might use it to buy more alcohol. Moral support is key to showing your love and concern. You can give it by helping your brother research treatment options and professional recovery facilities as well as offering to help with anything that is within your reach while he recovers.
Step 3
Attend support groups aimed to help relatives of alcoholics, such as Al-Anon or Alateen. This will help you feel supported in your process of helping your brother. It will also give you a wealth of information on things to avoid when you are trying to help, such as arguing with your brother about his problem or feeling guilty if your attempts don't go as planned.
Step 4
Encourage your brother to have new interests that you can share together where there is no alcohol available, such as a sport or class that interests him. This will give him a sense of belonging to something that is completely unrelated to his addiction.
Step 5
Reach out to your brother's children and spouse. Encourage them to attend your support group so they can understand your brother's condition better and learn how to help him as well.
