$Unique_ID{BRK01541}
$Pretitle{Community and Social Problems}
$Title{Fear of Alcoholism}
$Subject{alcoholism treatment}
$Volume{Q-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Fear of Alcoholism


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QUESTION:  My father was a drunk and I now fear I am following in his
footsteps.  I have fought against that image all my life, took my knocks when
I was a kid, but overcame and have finally reached a comfortable level in my
company.  But of late, I know I am slipping.  I don't know where to turn, and
fear if I give myself away, I will lose all I have won.  Can you offer me any
counsel, I don't know where else to turn?

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ANSWER:  You sound like a man who has displayed great self control, and
impressive motivation in the past.  Now is the time to do it again.  You are
surrounded by resources that can help you, people who will not only extend
their helping hands, but also maintain the confidence of your circumstances.
You might start with your own physician who can make the references to special
facilities or services that may be required for your situation.  You might
consider talking to your religious counselor, your pastor, minister, priest or
rabbi.  I have frequently been amazed at their effectiveness in dealing with
these situations, for they are very knowledgeable, and most sympathetic in
their approach.  The success of Alcoholics Anonymous is well documented.  They
utilize a 12 step program, an approach to the problem of alcoholism that does
not use medications or psychoactive drugs, but instead views rehabilitation as
an active continuing program that helps the individual to lead a healthy
productive life.  They can help you place new life styles in your existence,
encourage you to develop new social relationships, new interests that help you
maintain the abstinence that seems to be a basic requirement of all successful
programs.  No matter where you decide to turn for help, the success of your
endeavor depends upon you, your resolve to see it through and to change what
must be changed.  You sound like a man that can do it, has done it before, and
needs to make the decision to start now.  It certainly can be done, as many
others have pulled themselves out of the same predicament you know find that
you are in.  Good Luck to you.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
