Serious family conflict is usually present. Families both under and overreact to the alcoholic's behavior Value of Alanon and Alateen. Co-morbidity is a serious problem. Typically alcohol problems come first. Often these issues perpetuate each other and it is impossible to know which came first.
Individual psychotherapy is useful mainly for alcoholics suffering from anxiety and depression.
Effective psychotherapy is nearly impossible if drinking continues. Remember that all the problems associated with drinking do not disappear when the drinking stops. A major problem in treatment is that few programs are capable of dealing with dual disorders. This is beginning to change. Treatment programs have been able to demonstrate reduction in community crime rates and overall alcohol use.