It is never too late to intervene in addressing an alcohol problem and treatment options are many and varied. For many the first point of intervention is the GP. A doctor will assess the physical effects of harmful drinking and may refer a patient on for counselling. Counselling is readily accessible at community health centres and specialist alcohol and drug agencies. A counsellor will help a person explore the effect drinking is having on their life and strategies for change. A counsellor may also recommend the benefit of a self-help group such as Alcoholics Anonymous. Some people will require admission to a Withdrawal Unit to break the pattern of drinking and might then be referred to a longer term residential program.

The benefits of recovery from the harmful affects of drinking cannot be overestimated. Benefits flow from the problematic drinker who is addressing the problem to the family and to the wider community.