Women and Alcholism - The Challenge

I regard the life of the Alcoholic Woman as charmed. As you explore this topic, join in the discussions and chat online, getting to know the people you will meet here, you may (over a period of time perhaps) come to think of this statement as true. Being the editor of such an important topic is both a privilege and a responsibility. My attitude to sobriety and alcoholism will inform the praxis from which the information exchange will develop. This short article explains the approach, the philosophy upon which it is based and the direction I think the growing online community will head.

I will explore three aspects of recovery. These loose areas of knowledge encompass the myriad of issues, concerns and involvements of alcoholic women and their friends, family, workers, carers, professionals and therapists.

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Identification of Alcohol as a Problem.

There can be a variety of reactions to the idea of perceived suffering and danger when alcoholism first presents itself as a problem. The drinker as well as family and friends can go through a process of denial and resistance. Sometimes over coming this resistance does not happen with full sincerity until the drinker has hit "rock bottom." Fortunately though - recent developments in knowledge about the disease of alcoholism has meant people tend to seek help earlier. They are also more likely to receive that help when it is asked for. Women are less likely to shy away from the stigma of disclosure because understanding lessens the fear, stereotyping and mythology that once surrounded alcoholism.

Once the problem has been recognised, choices are made so that a process is set into play. If the woman is serious about asking for and receiving help - a search for appropriate strategies can take place. The articles, discussions and chat sessions featured here provide information about resources and facilities that encourage the reader to recognise warning signs and symptoms of the problem. Resources provided throughout the topic will encourage the alcoholic woman and her support network to be discerning. By accessing and learning about appropriate kinds of assistance available the alcoholic woman is able to make wise choices. This is a process of trial and error. Learning about how to make choices that are authentic becomes part of the process of recovery itself.

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NB* Disclaimer. "There will be no advertising for particular rehabilitation centres or detoxification programs within this topic. Any mention or reference to particular places, authors, people, types of medication or alternative therapies is only intended as information sharing and an exploration of the effectiveness of different types of strategies. Each alcoholic woman is a unique individual she must devise with her family and carers the right kind of approach for her. What is right for one alcoholic woman may not be right for another."

We as a community will look at the resources available, discuss them, share our experience, strength and hope so that other women are not left 'groping in the dark.' But in the end the journey to recovery is by its nature a journey to personal responsibility and therefore you must as a reader be discerning about what is right for you.

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