Where can I find support for living with an alcolholic?

Answer 1

You want to look in the local newspaper for Alanon classes. (Or Alateen if you are still young.) Usually held in the same buildings as AA services, you will find other people also living with alcoholics, who share similar experiences and discuss practices like knowing when you are enabling the disease (and how to cope while avoiding that), identify and avoid co-dependant behaviors, and keep yourself healthy and as happy as possible. The classes are free (though they may ask for a donation in order to provide you with a very helpful book), you will not need to tell them anything that you are not comfortable sharing, and you will be with people who understand what you are going through. You may want to find several Alanon classes and try them out; your ability to be comfortable with the individuals will greatly effect the value you find in this support. They are generally held in churches or other community halls. If they are not listed in your newspaper, try calling a substance abuse clinic and ask where they are held in your area. I was very uncomfortable the first few times I went (very tough, private stuff we are talking about, you know?), but my home life was unbarable. Now, I am very glad to have regained my sanity (though he continued to get worse until he finally died) and made some of the best, most understanding and supportive friends of my life. I also found Adult Children of Alcoholics very helpful, if this applies to you as well. Best wishes to you and your family.

Answer 2

AA is the best resource I have heard of. They have groups for the alcoholic, the spouse, and teens.

Answer 3

ALANON their in your local phone book,if you can only find the AA number call them and they will help you find ALANON.