Sunshine6666

Good morning everyone--new member and really not sure where to go on this chat line. I am a recovering alcoholic having a One-Year Birthday on 4 February 2013. I live with an alcoholic and have a sister who also is an active alcoholic down the street. I am at a point in my life that it is really making sick to be around them. Is this normal? I have been married 41 years to a man who was an alcoholic when I met hi. I turned into an alcoholic in my late 40s--after the children left the house. Well, that is enough for now.

yukonm

Hi There and welcome to the community. Also I want to congratulate you on your sobriety. There are lots of people here to support and encourage you. I celebrated 5 years in August. Glad to be able to join you on your journey.

LadyinBC

Congrats on coming up to a year!! That is fantastic! I don't think it is uncommon for relationships to change when one becomes sober. You guys are at different crossroads.

nogard

Welcome and congrats

Dee74

Hi and welcome Sunshine6666
Congrats on your sober time

I could no longer be around active alcoholics - too much chaos and drama - so I identify with what you're feeling for sure.

is there any way you can change your situation?

D

gr8t2bme

Hi and Welcome. Congratulations on your sobriety. I am over 7 months sober. My relationship with my sister changed because she chooses to drink.

janiebluebird

Its normal - when you're sober and other people are drunk you are on completely different levels.

artsoul

Welcome Sunshine and congrats on your (almost) year of sobriety! It's really commendable that you've gotten sober in your situation.

I think any of us would find it difficult and frustrating to spend a lot of time with an active alcoholic. We have a forum here for friends and family of alcoholics that you might want to check out - I know you'll find lots of support there, too:
Friends and Family of Alcoholics - SoberRecovery : Alcoholism Drug Addiction Help and Information

LexieCat

Welcome, and WooHOO on your upcoming anniversary! That's fantastic!

I think it's perfectly normal to feel uncomfortable around people who are still actively drinking. I am lucky enough to be single.

BUT, my alcoholism took off later in life, and I have been married to two alcoholics, and the best suggestion I can give you is GET TO AL-ANON!! They use the same 12 Steps as in AA, so you will feel right at home. The deal is, Al-Anon will help you deal with the craziness from having other alcoholics in your life--whether they are still drinking or not. I know a few people who have recovered and are still married to active alcoholics. Many of them go to Al-Anon AND AA. I even know couples where both are recovered alcoholics and they still go to Al-Anon, because as we all know, the ISM can remain even after the drinking is gone. We call people who do both programs "double winners" and you can be one, too! I really encourage you to check it out, and also to check out our "Friends and Family" forum here at SR.

Hevyn

Pleased to have you aboard, Sunshine! One year coming up is fabulous. I think you'll like being here with us - this is a great place.