DEAR ANNIE: My husband has admitted to me he is an alcoholic. We never used to think of it that way until last summer, when he let his drinking get out of hand, and now every weekend he gets drunk. Now, he’s home most of the time, but there have been occasions when he has gone to the bars with his brother and other friends, leaving me at home alone with our kids.
Now, I’ve read something recently about Families Anonymous for the family of an alcoholic. I would be interested in doing that so I can learn ways to support myself and him during his time of sobering up, but I don’t know if that would be seen as me pushing him to get sober. Also, none of the meetings are anywhere near me. And I’d rather do in-person meetings if possible.
DEAR ALCOHOLIC’S WIFE: You might want to check out Al-Anon to see if there are meetings closer to your home. Don’t worry about his reaction. He admits he has a problem, and you will be attending meetings to seek support and advice. He knows he can’t keep living the “punk kid life.” I have been a grateful member for 42 years. Although we recognize the pain people may be suffering due to another’s addictions, the focus must remain on the greater good for the entire group, with the focus on alcoholism.