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Dealing with the demons of addiction

ESCANABA — The tragedy of the screams, yelling, and crying, coupled with anger, sadness, rejection and hopelessness, echo through so many families dealing with alcoholism and/or addiction. These diseases affect the personal psyche of all involved: friends, family, and co-workers.

By personal psyche, I mean the tremendous human suffering where families are fractured, split or emotionally damaged. On the other hand, friendships are destroyed or at best affected, where trust may be eroded away.

I have personally witnessed and have been affected by loved ones, friends, and co-workers with alcoholism. The feelings I had were very similar to the ones that I just described. An example of its effects on people was best described to me many years ago: Visualize a giant wind chime with the item hanging in the center as the alcoholic. When the wind stirs, that piece moves and collides with the others that are also attached and hanging. This continues as they in turn strike others.

So, how does one support and seek help for an alcoholic/drug addict? I can only reflect on what I have experienced; I look at it as a four-legged chair, where the person with the addiction is the seat and supporting that person are four legs. Each leg symbolizes the following: family/friends, treatment, support groups, and God.

1. Family and Friends – Please keep in mind that the person with the addiction has to want to change, but sometimes an intervention with a professional coupled with family and friends may possibly open their eyes.

2. Treatment – Professional involvement at treatment centers with counseling for both addicts and families that provides another support system. When people detoxify, that process is intertwined with counseling, and may continue afterward.

3. Support Programs – There are various support programs that persons suffering from addictions, and their families can attend. These programs provide a strong, confidential foundation of coping skills and positive encouragement.

4. Faith/Prayer – Taking the time to pray with the Lord, asking and thanking Him for help is vital. Understanding and having the resolve to let go and leave it in His hands is crucial.

There is support in the form of professionals and programs that can be of help to both the addict/alcoholic and their respective families. If you have a loved one, a friend, or co-worker, please do not enable them and sweep the problem under the rug, thinking it will go away. Be proactive and seek out advice and support from the aforementioned people. Also don’t leave out the Lord and keep in mind that change is in His time.

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Dan Paul is a retired school administrator. His columns, which explore relationships, are published monthly in Lifestyles. Comments may be submitted at meaningfuldifferences.net.

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