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Old 12-19-2011, 10:50 AM
  # 8 (permalink)  
LifeRecovery
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Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Right here, right now!
Posts: 3,424
Ellen-

I don't think you made a mistake posting. However like an addict is responsible for their own recovery, your husband is responsible for his...

That is something I have a hard time knowing sometimes...what is mine and what is someone elses...and when I am being "helpful" or "harmful." Usually my intentions are good.

Al-anon was a HUGE help for me, and after a number of months I actually attended some open AA meetings (to help me learn about the disease). I did not go with my loved one who struggled with addiction....I went to learn, for me.

It took me some serious work to conceptualize alcoholism being a disease, and to come to terms with that....but to also have emotions about my loved one choosing to/not choosing to get help. I had no control over that....which was really hard for me.

Counseling for me was a huge help (both marital and individual....).

I agree with the suggestion of Codependent No More, but also got a lot of support from Al-anon books and honestly reading about alcoholism at the library. I read anything I could get my hands on for awhile about alcoholism and how it impacts all family members.
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