James LeFager, L.C.S.W., C.A.D.C. Social Worker at Dreyer Medical Clinic - West Downer Place

The holidays are a time for celebration. Unfortunately they are also a time when alcohol abuse is more prevalent. Alcoholism/Chemical Dependence remains one of the major health problems in the United States. Approximately one out of every ten social drinkers becomes alcoholic. The stereotypical view of an alcoholic as a resident of skid row is incorrect. The disease affects all social levels. It can involve physical dependency, but is more often seen in continued negative events related to drinking. Some of the real victims of this disease are the alcoholic's family. A time that should have many happy memories is often marred by a relative's drunken behavior.

Confronting a loved one about a drinking problem is almost always difficult, especially since alcoholics seem to have an explanation for all facets of their actions, due to an extremely strong denial system. Everything you say to them can be explained away with statements like, “I don’t drink that much,” or “I only drink on the weekends,” or “I only drink beer (or wine).” Because of all these behavior traits, it is important for family members to learn as much as they can about alcoholism and addiction. Multiple community resources are available, usually found in libraries, hospitals, and schools.

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism suggests asking yourself or a loved these four questions if there is a concern about drinking:

• Have you ever felt you should cut down on your drinking?
• Have people annoyed you by criticizing your drinking?
• Have you ever felt bad or guilty about your drinking?
• Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning to steady your nerves or to get rid of a hangover?

One "yes" answer suggests a possible alcohol problem. More than one "yes" answer means it is highly likely that a problem exists. If you think that you or someone you know might have an alcohol problem, it is important to see a doctor or other health care provider right away. They can help you determine if a drinking problem exists and plan the best course of action.

If a drinking problem is identified, it can be helpful to consult with a professional counselor prior to any confrontation. One type of confrontation, intervention, is something a family can prepare for together. The focus is not to attack, but to clarify how the drinking problem has affected each family member (abuse, embarrassment, depression, etc.) and to help the family define a set of actions they can take if the addictive behavior continues. The primary goal is have the alcoholic enter into a treatment process.

Treatment options range from advice and monitoring by a family doctor to private counseling and treatment programs. Community programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous, and Cocaine Anonymous are the most widely used support groups in recovery. Alanon, Alateen, and Families Anonymous are support programs for relatives, families and friends of the alcoholic. The local telephone directory will have listings for all these groups. The important thing for us all to remember is that recovery is possible.