Addictions connects social habits with behaviors that all too easily trigger a relapse. We can only applaud AA's success. There are more than 20 thousand AA groups. Sometimes people have felt oppressed by certain self-help groups. Women's groups and other substance abuse groups now exist that provide alternatives to the AA model.
Mental illness requires a similar vigilance for preventing relapse.
Abuse groups consider their connection to their group long-term. However, for most problems and illnesses, leaving a group because you have put the problem behind you is expected. You won't always feel the need to attend a self-help group if you basically had or have developed a healthy lifestyle and social maturity. Self-help groups create a bond among members when they discuss the negative aspects of illness. To heal, you must stop identifying with the wounds caused by the illness and get on with life.