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 Detachment
Alcoholism is a
family disease. Living with the effects of
someone else's drinking is too devastating for most people
to bear without help. In Al-Anon/Alateen we learn
individuals are not responsible for another person's
disease or recovery from it.
We let go of
our obsession with another's behavior and begin to lead
happier and more manageable lives, lives with dignity and
rights; lives guided by a Power greater than ourselves.
In
Al-Anon/Alateen We Learn:
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not to suffer because of the actions
or reactions of other people;
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not to allow ourselves to be used or
abused by others in the interest of another's
recovery;
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not to do for others what they could
do for themselves;
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not to manipulate situations so others
will eat, go to bed, get up, pay bills, not drink;
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not to cover up for anyone's mistakes
or misdeeds;
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not to create a crisis; and,
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not to prevent a crisis if it is in
the natural course of events.
Detachment is
neither kind nor unkind. It does not imply
judgment or condemnation of the person or situation from
which we are detaching. It is simply a means that
allows us to separate ourselves from the adverse effects
that another person's alcoholism can have upon our lives.
Detachment helps
families look at their situations realistically and
objectively, thereby making intelligent decisions
possible.
Al-Anon/Alateen is
a worldwide organization that offers a program of
recovery for the families and friends of alcoholics
whether or not the alcoholic seeks help or even recognizes
the existence of a drinking problem. Members give
and receive comfort and understanding through a mutual
exchange of experiences, strength, and hope. Sharing
of similar problems binds individuals and groups together
in a bond that is protected by a policy of anonymity.
Al-Anon/Alateen is
not a religious organization or a counseling
agency. It is not a treatment center nor is it
allied with any other organization offering such services.
Al-Anon Family Groups, which includes Alateen for teenage
members, neither express opinions on outside issues nor
endorse outside enterprises. No dues or fees are
required. Membership is voluntary, requiring only
that one's own life has been adversely affected by someone
else's drinking problem.
You can contact Al-Anon or Alateen in the
Austin and surrounding areas by calling the Austin Al-Anon
Information Center at 512.441.8591 or in Texas
888.287.2115, you can locate local meeting information by
clicking
here.
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