Several years ago, I was having severe chest pains, my blood pressure was spiking, and I had tremors. I felt like I was going to die.  So, I went to see a doctor who suggested either counseling with a mental health therapist or going on medication for anxiety and depression.  I chose to see the counselor.  When I visited with her, she discovered that I was living with active alcoholism in my husband. Some time later, I discovered that my son also had a problem with alcohol. When he entered a treatment facility, a counselor there explained that alcoholism is a family disease and encouraged me to find an Al-Anon meeting.

I continue to attend meetings all these years later because of the help that was offered to me in the early days.  While my recovery will never be completed, my blood pressure is under control, as are my fear and anxiety. I am there to share my experience, strength, and hope with those who walk into Al-Anon meetings for years to come because someone was there for me.

By Anonymous

The Forum, December 2018