Coping with Alcoholism

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Current research has revealed that alcoholism affects around a million people across the country.

The research estimates that those most severely affected by alcohol addiction include the drinkers' partner, family, friends and work colleagues. Children are also in danger of experiencing long-term psychological damage due to a parent's addiction to drink.

The findings name confusion, helplessness and feelings of despair as frequent reactions for those close to the drinker. One such case study cites Angela, whose husband abused alcohol for 14 years of their marriage. With little knowledge of the nature of his addiction, Angela blamed herself for his problems.

"I felt he didn't love me enough to stop," she said.

Social isolation is also a common outcome for all involved. Angela, who is now a support counsellor for Al-Anon, an organisation which helps those affected by alcoholism, states that she tried to cover her husband's problem with little success. "I wanted to project this happy family image to friends and neighbours but they all knew," she says. As a result, friends stopped visiting the family home.

Furthermore, the research shows that the trust between those concerned can be severely compromised. Although Angela's husband had a job, the money he did earn was spent on alcohol. 'He only ever admitted having 'one drink,' she said. Unsurprisingly, depression and despair are cited as common reactions in those close to alcoholics.

The research also reveals a link between alcoholism and domestic abuse, with 50% of men receiving help from alcohol services for this problem. Children are also at risk, with a lack of services out there to support them. "People think they are protecting the children from the drinking," says Angela. "But even very young children pick up the atmosphere." Guilt is noted as a familiar response.

There is, however, a network for support for those affected. In addition to Al-Anon, Alcohol Concern, the national agency on alcohol misuse, offer advice to family members close to those with alcohol-related problems. "You have to accept that neither you nor anyone else can make someone stop drinking harmfully," says campaigns officer Frank Soodeen. "But you can help them to make changes."