Addiction - A Family Problem

If yours is a family where someone has an alcohol or drug problem, this year has taught you that - once again - nothing has changed.  Your loved one's problem is the same:  Last year he fell into the Christmas tree;  this year he fell into the house after too much drinking.  Last year she passed out in the bathroom;  this year she couldn't get up to go to work.

As a family, you have always looked the other way;  relieved when your loved one makes a promise to quit for good - same as he or she made last year.

But if you are getting tired or reliving your family's drama, you need to begin to realize that it is YOUR problem, not just his or hers.

If you want things to change, you need to ask yourself the following questions:  "Does your loved one really need help?"  and  "What kind of help should your loved one get?"

The trick is to get your loved one to accept help and to stay with what ever program is chosen.  In almost all cases, the impetus for getting someone to accept help has to come from you and other family members.

So instead of waiting for your loved one to break his or her promise again, call for help so that you can begin the process of recovery.