Joan M. Tietjen, Ph.D., CCDC III
I'm sorry I didn't read the message re your 45 year old son who apparently has the disease of alcoholism. Turning him over to the police will only keep him off the streets but will not necessarily get him the help he needs. Our society seems to view alcoholism as a crime & not a disease as the AMA has declared a number of yuears ago. If you haven't done so I would suggest that you go to an Al-Anon Meeting (which you will find listed in the Yellow pages) and talk to members there for help. I would also suggest that you contact a treatment center in your area and inquire as to the possibility of setting up an Intervention with their help. It is not true that an alcoholic has to want to quit. Often they don't know how. But the biggest thing that keeps them drinking is being enabled by their family, friends and work. If you are not aware of the term 'enabeling' I suggest that that you call a treatment center and set up an appointment for yourself so that you can learn to care for yourself. I can't emphasize enough the importance of educating yourself regarding this disease. I hope this helps. I understand your pain.