Letter to the Editor

We are an organization whose sole purpose is to support and educate people who have been or are being adversely affected by another person’s addictions.

Rosemary McLeod (Feb 17) states that it’s a mystery why anybody would stay with an alcoholic.

When the addict is your son, daughter, father, mother or long-term partner, the reasons are obvious – you love them.

There are very few people who at the first signs of addiction demand the user leave.  To try to help is the normal reaction.

Many families after years of abuse do finally ask the addict to leave or leave them.  However, it is a process that takes time.

To be undermined for trying to help a loved one is hurtful.

The disease model of addiction is one of many.  Having the disease of addiction does not excuse the behaviour.  It explains why it occurred.

The Christchurch Press

Letter submitted by Graeme Watson, Office Administrator, Familial Trust

23 February, 2005