Marriage On The Rocks : Learning to Live with Yourself and an Alcoholic
Author: Janet Woititz
List Price: $6.95
Our Price: Click to see the latest and low price
ISBN: 0932194176
Publisher: Health Communications (01 November, 1986)
Sales Rank: 26,881
Average Customer Rating: 5 out of 5
Customer Reviews
Rating: 5 out of 5
Just getting started
I've only gotten through the very beginning of the book, simply because, ironically, I can't find enough 'me time' to read anymore of it. But from what I have read, I have found myself saying, 'oh I thought it was me' and 'I'm not crazy, this is what really happens'. I do think it's a truthful and helpful book.
I also wonder how I will survive with just half of a husband, and I feel so alone most of the time, that is after he disappears and becomes his evil alter-ego. The dependence on me is so heavy and debilitating, I just want to disappear myself so I can have some peace. I know it's a disease just like MS or cancer, and no I wouldn't abandon him if he had one of those, but I do feel trapped. I often want my lonely life back. At least then I had control.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Great Introduction to the Family Dynamics
I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to know how alcoholism affects a family as a whole. Even if there are no children in your relationship, don't skip the chapter regarding what happens to the kids. Many alcoholics or those who are attracted to them come from childhoods were alcoholism played a part. You'll be surprised by who you recognize in this chapter.
The author stresses that the alcoholic does not have to be the husband. For the sake of simplicity, though, she wrote the information from that point of view. Keep an open mind if what she presents isn't exactly your situation.
And by all means, go to Al-Anon. It's free. Al-Anon is for families and friends of trying to cope with the behavior and thinking of an alcoholic. AA is for alcoholics. Let AA help the alcohlic get sober, because you as a family member or friend cannot do that. Those who live with, work with, are related to, or are otherwise impacted by an alcoholic's behavior will benefit from Al-Anon. Learn how not to inadvertently feed into the alcoholic behavior.
This book is a great place to start in that understanding. Another book that I recommend is "It Will Never Happen to Me" by Claudia Black.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Sanity in the midst of insanity
This book and author has had a profound affect on me! Reading it is like being thrown a lifeline in the midst of a raging insanity storm! It has helped me see - I'm NOT crazy. I CAN be whole. There IS hope. I encourage anyone in relationship with an alcoholic to get this book and start back on the road to wholeness!
Similar Products
Dilemma of the Alcoholic Marriage
Getting Them Sober: You Can Help!
Outwitting Your Alcoholic: Exploring and Escaping from the Strange World of Alcoholism
Under the Influence : A Guide to the Myths and Realities of Alcoholism
Book Index