How Do You Prevent Cope or Support Alcoholism?

Alcoholism is a serious chronic disease that has a huge impact on the person with the disease as well as all family members, friends and co-workers observing the symptoms and consequences of the alcoholism. It is especially difficult for spouses and children to deal with the many emotional financial and mental consequences of alcoholism. If a person could prevent this disease like any other disease, they would probably elect to do so. Family members and friends would most likely wish to cope with the consequences of what alcoholism does to them and the person they love instead of not being able to cope. How do you support a loved one suffering from alcoholism?

Prevention is the key to stopping future suffering if at all possible. Prevention is all about knowing and recognizing the risk factors as well as the signs and symptoms of alcoholism. Knowing that family history plays a significant role in alcoholism tells other family members who are not yet alcoholics to be diligent when it comes to avoiding the use of alcohol. It also means understanding the other risk factors such as peer pressure, an environment where alcohol is abundant and is an acceptable way of life. Preventing alcoholism means understanding the grim statistics that can protect future teens from repeating the same mistakes of present and past teen that become involved in drinking and driving. Teens who drink are more likely to become involved in alcohol-related vehicular accidents and are also more likely to become sexually active as well as to engage in risky and unprotected sex than teens who do not drink alcohol. When you know how vulnerable teens can be, it should become clear that speaking to teens that are important to you about the risks of drinking alcohol should be a priority to everyone.

How do you cope with alcoholism if prevention failed and someone you know or love has been diagnosed with alcoholism?

Coping means managing and skills and education are needed in order to cope with any disease that is chronic or progressive like alcoholism is. Thank goodness there are many organizations that are prepared to educate and support families that are dealing with alcoholism through organizations like AA, Al-Anon and Alateen. There are also many community programs based in hospitals and clinics that are also set up to help those who are struggling to cope with alcoholism. Finding a good support group is just as essential for family members as it is for the individual that has been diagnosed with alcoholism. Coping can also be made easier when you have an understanding doctor willing to take the time to explain your disease, or explain to a family member what the patient is going through. Just like any other chronic or progressive disease family members need medical answers, and need to know how to give emotional, mental and spiritual support to the patient. Coping requires being honest about feelings and being willing to deal with the reality of the situation.

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