re: AA
I think that one big value that can be gained from AA is the recognition that you are not a frek show, and that there are millions who have travelled the same road.
Anything I have done, there are many who have done far worse.
Anything that I have lost, there are many who have lost far more.
Any adversity I have overcome, there are many who have overcome far more.
So AA was, for me, about finding out that I am not the only person who had these thoughts and problems. That removed one major burden.
Your friend is already in a position many addicts/alcoholics would envy--he is employed. So, so many abusers have absolutely nothing. No job. No friends. No home, and no prospects. Plus he has already taken the first step before losing everything. He's reaching out. Praying for him now.