I sometimes think of Al‑Anon meetings as an emergency room or infirmary where I can get treatment for my anxiety, anger, fear and uncertainty. I come when I need a dose of Al‑Anon medicine. I come because I need to hear someone share their problem, which may resemble mine. It helps to know that I’m not the only one who has it. I want to hear and feel members’ experience, strength and hope if they are up for it. And if not, it’s okay to hear about their hurting, too, because we can bond through our pain, as well as our joy.
I know I will feel better after the meeting—no matter what I hear or say. I think of it as a treatment to help me deal with the effects of the family disease of alcoholism. It is good medicine that helps me get better. As I listen to people share and get healthier, I get healthier. I try not to forget that this is not a short-term healing process. Even though I will make more trips to the emergency room, I don’t need to call for an appointment—I can just walk in to attend an Al-Anon meeting.
By Robert H., Virginia
The Forum, November 2018
My brother is an alcoholic. His wife is an ex addict and an enabler. The 14 and 9 year old kids are unhappy in the house and afraid of their father. I get my nephews every weekend so they have some relief.
I’m just the aunt. How can I help.
My son in law is an alcoholic, has 3 amazing teen kids that he has no interaction with and hurts them with his words, lack of involvement or participation in their lives. They’re great kids, excel in school and sports and are well thought of by their peers and teachers. My daughter is non confrontational and just avoids him. He lives for himself and calls his kids spoiled because they need rides home at night after sports practices covered in sweat in the cold weather in Long Island ..he won’t leave the bars to get them. He drives drunk all… Read more »
You can find a local meeting here.
Where can I go to a meeting for a spouse