Mutual support groups whose members are individuals who have a substance use disorder or any of a number of behavioral addictions which are akin to substance-related disorders in clinical expression, brain origin, comorbidity, physiology and treatment. The groups meet in-person, by telephone or via the Internet; provide emotional support, information and resources to help those who participate modify their behavior; and may include faith-based and secular 12-step groups as well as non-12 step groups.

Disorders related to excessive alcohol use, other drug use or use of other substances including caffeine and tobacco that is characterized by an inability to control or limit the amount taken or the frequency; intense cravings; continuing use despite problems with work, school or family/social obligations or interpersonal problems; risky use, e.g., driving a car, operating machinery while under the influence or continuing to smoke following an emphysema diagnosis; or evidence of pharmacological indicators (tolerance and withdrawal symptoms), the adjustment the body makes as it attempts to adapt to the continued and frequent use of a substance.

The parents, children, spouses, partners, friends or other relatives or significant others of people who have an alcohol use disorder, whose own patterns of personal, social and familial coping have been negatively affected by ongoing interaction with and concern about the individual.

The parents, children, spouses, partners, friends or other relatives or significant others of people who have a drug use disorder, whose own patterns of personal, social and familial coping have been negatively affected by ongoing interaction with and concern about the individual.