How to help an alcoholic?

The first step for the alcoholic is to admit that there is an alcohol dependency problem. The next step is to get help. In most of the world there are several support groups and professional services available. Alcoholism is a treatable disease. Treatment often begins with detoxification, the process of safely getting all the alcohol out of a person's body. Once detoxification is complete, some people take medications to help prevent a return to drinking. 

Also, various kinds of therapy are used to treat alcoholism. Therapy can help people identify the feelings and situations that trigger their drinking. Therapy can be provided individually or in a group, and it can take place in a mental health center or a hospital. Social skills training teaches people to handle social situations better. Behavioral therapy helps people learn to control harmful behavior and the impulse to drink.