Yvonne’s dad was a heavy drinker who was pretty angry and controlled the family but she didn’t recognise it as alcoholism till later in life.  After her son was born her relationship with her partner deteriorated and with help from a psychologist found Al-Anon Family Groups. Yvonne went to Al-Anon for over 4 years before leaving her partner and moving interstate to live.  Separated from the drinking partner she stopped going to Al-Anon but returned when her son left home in his early 20’s. Yvonne has been back in Al-Anon for over 7 years now and it helps her cope with her son’s binge drinking and life in general.

Although not much of a drinker herself, Phyllis enjoyed the fun of socializing with her drinking friends, often driving them to parties and events before she was married. Her husband was a serious drinker and died in his late 50’s of alcohol related causes.  Thinking that her problems were now over Phyllis was surprised how affected her children were and how dysfunctional her family was. Some friends convinced her to try Al-Anon and she found she was able to respect her daughter and sons life choices and get on with her own life.

If someone else's drinking is causing you a problem then you can phone the Al-Anon Family Groups helpline on 1300 252 666 or go online at www.al-anon.org.au.