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Addiction to Alcohol/How to Stop Someone From Drinking

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Expert: - 3/24/2011


Question
hi , um my brother is starting to drink and how do i stop him ?


heather.

Answer

Beverley Glazer MA. IC
Hi Heather,

Unfortunately, you can scream, nag, you name it -- but no one can stop someone from drinking.  Your brother will drink if he wants to -- and hide it if he has to. Tell your brother that you care about him and that you're concerned about his drinking.  Tell him to make sure not to drink and drive, however, he'll still do what he wants to do. Tell him how you feel, but try to stay out of arguments.

A drinker has to suffer the consequences of his behavior, so don't enable him. Don't give him money for alcohol, lie for him etc. because you'll just be supporting his drinking. Your brother must learn that his drinking is responsible for his issues.

Here's some information on enabling: http://www.untwist-your-thinking.com/enabling-behavior.html

I hope this information is helpful,

Thank you for asking AllExperts

Regards,

Bev
http://www.untwist-your-thinking.com  

Beverley Glazer

Expertise

I can answer questions on all addictive behaviors: alcohol, drugs, food, compulsive sex, codependency, gambling, compulsive shoplifting etc.

Experience

I have over 20 years experience working in the addiction field. My experience extends to all levels of substance abuse. I've worked in rehabs and detox centers, prisons and half-way houses and have a busy private practice as well as an active website where I can be reached for recovery coaching and consultation. I am a cognitive behavioral therapist, but 12-step programs are an excellent support. When working in the addiction field, there is no cookie-cutter solution. In the recovery field, you witness miracles. That's why I love what I do.

Organizations
NAADAC The Association for Addiction Professionals, CACCF Canadian Addiction Counselors Federation, CCA Canadian Counseling Association, For more information please see: http://www.untwist-your-thinking.com

Education/Credentials
BA Psychology, MA Counseling Psychology, ICADC International Alcohol and Drug Counselor, ICAC International Clinical Addiction Counselor, CGC Certified Gambling Counselor.

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