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Community Corner

Is Someone's Drinking Bothering You?

Families of problem drinkers can find relief for themselves and hope for their loved ones in Al‑Anon Family Groups, according to Christine McKaskle, a counselor in the field of alcoholism treatment.

“Speaking as a counselor,” McKaskle said, “I can tell you that the relief I’ve seen in people who attend Al‑Anon and Alateen is nothing short of phenomenal.  Even my clients who choose just to sit and listen at first report that the meetings help them immensely and those who are hungry to talk find people who willingly give time to listen.”

Christine McKaskle, Clinical Coordinator of the Youth Program at Cumberland Heights Alcohol and Drug Treatment Center in Nashville, Tennessee, made her comments in a podcast available for free at www.Al-AnonFamilyGroups.org,

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McKaskle described how Al‑Anon Family Groups can help people who have been affected by someone else’s drinking.  She explained why she and her colleagues recommended participation in Al‑Anon and Alateen programs.  She also shared some of the results she has witnessed among clients who have tried Al‑Anon Family Group meetings.

“It really is a privilege to watch the miracles that occur as they work with their loved ones from a standpoint of greater understanding, compassion, and humility,” McKaskle said.  “Al-Anon does not replace treatment and therapy, but it is a wonderful continuing care plan that costs families very little, except their willingness.”

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Directing comments to professionals who work with families of alcoholics, McKaskle said, “Visiting some open Al-Anon and open A.A. meetings is a good idea for anyone working with this population.  Besides the fact that it allows you to speak with some authority in recommending these programs, you are likely to pick up some tools that are helpful to you personally as you work with these families.” 

Visit the Georgia Al-Anon/Alateen Web site for more information and meetings near you or call 800-568-1619.

Closed Al‑Anon meetings are for anyone who has been affected by someone else’s drinking. 

Open Al‑Anon meetings are for anyone who is interested in learning about Al‑Anon. If an open meeting is not available, professionals can ask participants for permission to attend a closed meeting.

Podcasts from Al‑Anon Family Groups are available individually or by free subscription at www.Al-AnonFamilyGroups.org.

Al‑Anon Family Groups have been helping friends and families of problem drinkers since 1951.

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