My son was in the ICU for 3 months (not drink related), and I was there every day. I'm not saying that gives me the level of understanding about it that you must have, I'm just saying I understand it on a certain level. The nurses there were the most dedicated, compassionate, caring people I have ever met. However, that is also the most stressful environment I've ever been in. You have a tough job that leaves you with a lot to deal with after you punch out. Drinking won't make anything better even though it might seem like it does for a little while - I found that one out the hard way. Like Philly said, it's a steep and unforgiving slope. Thanks for your post, keep coming back, there's lots of good people here.