The Demon Drink

Re: Advice needed for parent of an acoholic son
Asked by tlnj34

Question:
 

I am a 41 year old mother of an 3 sons. My 18 year old was just recently sent to rehab for alcoholism. I feel like I have a newborn and do not know how to parent.

Any advice on how to make the transition to him being home?

My Advice:

 

I don't know if any of my advice will help you but I will give it a blast.

I would say 1stly concentrate on your other 2 sons, hopefully they have seen thier brother at his worst as this may pursuade them not to go the same way. If they do want to drink I would suggest letting them do it in a safe environment like home but try and show them that drinking to be social is more fun than drinking to get plastered.

I have been down this track but it was me with the problem.

I threatened to go to AA on numerous occaisions (and this may work for your son) but in the end decided that if I did, it would still be me that had to do the hard yards. This is the sort of thought process you son needs to adopt otherwise it does not matter a pinch of salt how many people tell him to give up. Only he can do it.

As part of my process I still went to the pub and drank OJ and watched my mates fall over, vomit and fight and just could not understand how they could possibly be having fun.

I hope the rehab was your sons idea.

Otherwise, I don't know the full extent of your situation but when he comes home make sure there is no booze in the house, don't leave money unattended. You may consider trying to do some family activities to keep his mind busy...sports, games, movies, meals, chores/jobs. Don't do everything for him and do give him some space and above all let him know you are there for him and that you trust him.

I hope your son gets better soon.

Thinking of you all in your plight to help your son/brother.

Robert