Bipolar Type II Support Group

Someone mentioned Alanon, a 12 Step group that was founded by the wives of the original AA members, the ones started it all. I would also suggest that you attend as well.

I can tell you as a member of both AA and Alanon there is only one thing you can do to get him into rehab. Let him get there himself. I know that sound's harsh, but trying to force him to do something he is obviously not ready for, will only make the situation worse, for him and for the rest of the family. Alanon does not teach people how to get their loved ones to do what they want them to. Alanon shows you that you can peace, that it's not your job to rescue him, and the rescuing a person who is drinking/using does not allow them to suffer the consequences of his actions. If he can't appreciate what the addiction is doing to him, he will never seek help. Most have to hit rock bottom before they are willing to climb out of the hole.

In the meantime, Alanon will teach to keep the focus on yourself and take care of your self.

There is one thing I won't discount and that's the value of an intervention. I suppose if he gets really out of control, you could try going in front of a judge and having determined unfit and that would give some control over this situation, but truthfully, those are extreme solutions and most likely would cause more resentment on his part. As an alcoholic, I can tell you that the the quickest way to get me to do something is tell me not to, the easiest to tell me not to do something is to force me into.

Give Alanon a try. If you're interested, send me a private message and I will provide you some links that will give information about how to contact Alanon, both online and face 2 face meetings.

Good luck and many prayers for your family.

Colleen