The material presented
here is not Al-Anon Conference Approved Literature. It is a method
to exchange
information, ideas, feelings, problems and solutions on a personal
level.
Any advice on how to tell my 10 and 7 year olds their dad is an alcoholic? We separated almost a year ago and he has been in a downward spiral ever since. He is now in a hospital after attempted suicide. They don't know anything and don't ask much about him as he wasn't able to stay sober to make the visits. I already have said to them he is not well but I need to have a more detailed talk with them..... advice is appreciated!!! Blessings!!!
I have no ESH for this frogswim......I do know that mine were close in age when I figured out my AH had relapsed. I truly let them ask any questions they had (counselor suggested they lead vs. me lead discussions about it) and answered them as simply as possible. I was not in Al-Anon and it was really tough at times. I am grateful I had experience in recovery before their questions as it did help me practice patience, tolerance and loving acceptance of the disease.
Hopefully someone else will come along with some thoughts.
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Practice the PAUSE...Pause before judging. Pause before assuming. Pause before accusing. Pause whenever you are about to react harshly and you will avoid doing and saying things you will later regret. ~~~~ Lori Deschene
(((((frogswim))))...check out the Conferenced Approved Literature (CAL) on the Al-Anon Family Groups site and under Alateen the book "What's Drunk Mommy" It was written especially for kids who need to know. My prayers go with this text...I use to work with the kids and they are sooooo special.
