Which self-help group would be appropriate for a father distressed by his alcoholic son?

Al-Anon is specifically designed to assist family members and friends of individuals struggling with alcoholism. It provides a supportive environment where relatives, like the father in this scenario, can share their experiences, gain insights, and learn coping strategies for dealing with the challenges associated with a loved one's alcoholism. The group focuses on emotional support and personal growth, helping members to navigate their feelings of distress, frustration, or hopelessness that often accompany having an alcoholic family member.

In contrast, Alcoholics Anonymous is aimed at individuals who are seeking recovery from their own alcohol use disorders, making it less suitable for someone looking to support a loved one. Anorexics Anonymous, as the name suggests, is focused on individuals battling anorexia, not applicable in this context. Smart Recovery, while it also focuses on recovery strategies, is primarily directed towards individuals struggling with addiction rather than their families. Therefore, Al-Anon is clearly the most appropriate choice for a father distressed by his alcoholic son.