DO I SUFFER FROM ALCOHOLISM?

The affliction known as alcoholism creeps up on a person gradually, bit by bit. No one chooses for alcohol to dominate his or her life. But many times, one loses the ability to control his or her drinking and the destructive behaviors that often follow. Eventually there are painful questions cannot be avoided.

Among the characteristics that alcohol induces are two passionate convictions: (1) whatever has gone wrong is someone else’s fault, and (2) no matter what anyone says or points out, “I do not have a problem with drinking. Everything is under control!”. But eventually the time comes when one must ask oneself the hard question, “Am I alcoholic?”

Here are a few relevant questions:

I.   Has anyone who loves me and whom I love expressed concern about my drinking?

II.  Have any of my biological relatives had problems with alcohol?

III.  Has drinking contributed  to things I have lost, such  as job, spouse, friends,  privileges, money, respect?

IV.  When I’ve had a few drinks, have I sometimes said or done things that I later regretted?

V.  Have I sometimes spent money on alcohol that might have been better spent on family needs?

The good news is that help is available. One of the best sources is AA. It is true that AA is a very imperfect organization, and all kinds of negative things can be said about it (especially if one wants an excuse not to ask for help). But AA has helped lots of people, and it is a better alternative than a life of despair. Two numbers in the area of Douglasville, GA are (770) 577-0575 and (770) 942-4735.  There is a similar organization called Alanon for family members. My daughter Cathleen has been involved in Alanon for many years and has found it very helpful. (404) 687-0466.