Expert: Jan Edward Williams - 10/16/2009

Question
I am an Indian, my husband drinks alcohol because I work in an office where there are men around. He is very possessive about me and does not like me talking to other people. I am the only earning member in the family. I get mentally abused every day. Please advice!

Answer
Hello UA,
You don't give much information in your question, but it sounds as if you are in a frightening and painful situation. It is difficult to tell the extent of your husband's alcohol issues. If he is blaming his drinking on the fact you work in an office where men also work, that suggests a problem with alcohol. Social drinkers don't need excuses for drinking. No one needs to allow herself to be abused. Here is a good summary of emotional abuse and what to do about it: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/domestic-violence/WO00044 If your husband is an alcoholic, then I suggest you also consider getting help from Al-Anon, the 12 Step Program for those in a relationship with an alcoholic: http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/
Good luck,
Jan Edward Williams, MS, JD, LCADC
www.alcoholdrugsos.com,