This is true.
12 steps work.
However in alcohol, if he is a heavy drinker, withdrawal can be dangerous and must be supervised. Some have seizures.
Finding a doctor to do it can be difficult or expensive.
Old alcoholics found at AA will sometimes help wean newcomers down but they must be “oldtimers” with years of sobriety.
They are often kind of assholes.
If parent can, they should go to an open AA meeting and talk before/after to others.
If they arent friendly, find another meeting.
Can find meetings with google search for area.
Alanon is helpful for parent and spouses but fewer meetings.
>>1637537