There are a number of tools on the Internet which can help someone deal with an alcohol issue.A group of alcohol experts now reports on a recent discussion on how the Internet can help people with drinking problems.

People are now very comfortable with searching for health advice on the Internet. And it could be easier to seek help for a drinking problem online rather than face to face.

One study focused on the Drinker's Check Up - a computer program which is the equivalent of two to three face-to-face sessions. Those using it were able to reduce their drinking and related dependence problems by 50 per cent at a 12 month follow up. There are many other tools available that will help people look at their drinking patterns and decide what to do. It is not clear, yet, how well an online tool compares with intervention by a doctor or a counselor. But these studies are underway. For many people, the anonymous, low-cost and freely available nature of Internet support may be just what they need to beat an alcohol problem.

Source
Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research February 2005