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Step 1
Admit the problem. It can be very easy to deny that a loved one is an alcoholic by explaining away their behavior. But ignoring that there is an alcoholic in the family can be detrimental to future generations. Choosing to confront family members that have alcohol addictions is a difficult decision, but admitting that there is a presence of alcoholism in the family is important in order to stop it from recurring.
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Step 2
Recognize the warning signs. Alcoholics can be very skilled at hiding the signs of their addiction, and knowing how to recognize them is one way to know if someone is at risk for becoming an alcoholic. Bloodshot eyes, slurred speech and the smell of alcohol or an abundance of alcohol containers in one's house can be obvious signs that someone may have a drinking problem. Difficulties at work, changes or bad choices in friendships or relationships and acting overly defensive can also be warning signs that someone may need help.
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Step 3
Act early. Avoiding alcoholism can only be done if one recognizes the risks early on and takes proactive steps to avoid addiction. Admitting that there is a problem and taking action to avoid being a future statistic is the only way to break a cycle of family alcoholism. Admit that there is a problem, and do something about it immediately.
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Step 4
Avoid negative influences. If you know that you are at risk for becoming an alcoholic because a family history exists, limit your exposure to alcoholism outside of your family circle by staying away from negative influences that may encourage destructive behavior. If you have friends who like to go out to bars or clubs and drink every weekend, try suggesting other activities that don't involve drinking or simply don't socialize with them. If you find yourself feeling the urge to drink when you go out alone and are offered a drink by a stranger, having a friend you trust accompany you when you drink socially can help you limit your alcohol intake.
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Step 5
Ask for help. Friends that truly love you won't judge you because you come from an alcoholic family and will help you avoid the disease. Allow trusted friends to become a sort of safety net for you in your fight against alcoholism. Ask them to help you to avoid drinking too much or at all when you go out socially and consider spending holidays with them instead of with family members who drink to avoid being influenced by negative family behavior.
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Step 6
Utilize support groups. There are a variety of free, public support groups specifically designed to help children and families of alcoholics and those that are at risk for alcoholism. Do not be ashamed to turn to these resources for support. They will help you find positive alternatives to negative behavior, recognize warning signs in yourself and others and will also help strengthen your resolve by reminding you that you are not alone.
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Step 7
Stay committed. Alcoholism is a lifelong disease and so is the battle to avoid becoming an alcoholic when the disease runs in the family. For this reason, it is important to maintain a strong commitment to avoiding alcoholism and choosing a healthy lifestyle.
Comments
CrazyAce said
on 3/21/2008 Don't Drink or hang out with those who do.