The best methods to treat alcohol dependency vary, depending upon an individual's medical and personal needs.

• Some heavy drinkers who recognize their problem appear to recover on their own.
• Others recover through participation in the programs of Alcoholics Anonymous or other self-help groups.
• Some alcoholics require long-term individual or group therapy, which may inlcude hospitalization.
• Treatment can also be done in community setting.
• Prognosis is good even if a person is pressured into treatment.
• Patients who come for voluntary treatment have the best prognosis.
• Voluntary mutual help organizations play a large role in the treatment.
• Effective alcohol control policies are also needed.