Families & Friends Of Addicts Support Group
Addiction affects more than just the individual. This community is dedicated to the families and friends of individuals suffering from any form of addiction. Mental health professionals are increasingly considering alcoholism and addiction as diseases that flourish in and are enabled by family systems. Family members react to the addicted person with particular behavioral...
My partner has finally admitted he is an alcoholic. I’m feeling relieved because he was in denial for so long and no matter how many times we talked about the problem, he didn’t fully believe it until last night. As happy as I am that he is finally beginning this journey towards sobriety, I’m feeling pretty isolated. I feel like I have no one I can talk to about what’s going on. My family doesn’t know about it and my friends are also his friends so I don’t feel comfortable confiding in them. I guess I’m mostly just looking for a hint of social support. So if anyone has any words of encouragement it would be much appreciated.
I found that when my husband started his journey to heal, the extended family rallied in support of some kind. Some wanted to buoy him and me, while others told me to leave if he ever messed up again. It makes it hard to talk about what's going on because you don't want him (the alcoholic) to feel ashamed or embarrassed.
Al-anon is supposed to be great for support, but that gives out your secret to those in your community. That said, I think this issue is far more prevalent than you - or I - realize, and you are definitely not alone.
Happy to talk at any time, and I wish you- and him- the best of luck as you go down this path.