Al-Anon helped ease a mother’s worry and guilt

As a mother, you always want the best for your children. When I found out that my daughter was drinking, I became really worried. Friends and family members would call me and tell me things she had done or was doing. I never saw her drinking to the extent that everyone had said until I saw her drunk at a wedding.

I tried talking to my daughter over and over again, but nothing changed. In fact, the problem was getting worse. She became very distant with us. She hardly ever called or visited. I felt so guilty. What did I do to cause this? Where did I go wrong?

My health was deteriorating. I was always tired, had sleepless nights, and worried about her 24 hours a day. Every time the phone rang, my heart would stop. I feared it was the police calling saying that she had gotten into an accident, or that they had found her body somewhere in a field—dead. I just couldn’t think straight anymore.

One night when I was laying in bed, I asked God, “Please watch over my daughter for just this one night so I can get a decent night’s sleep.” I remember waking up the next morning feeling so rested and realized that God had answered my prayers. I was so grateful. I then told Him that I could take my daughter back now for the day.

I realized that I needed professional help so I could help myself and my daughter. Finally, I called my doctor and she referred me to a psychiatrist who, in turn, referred me to Al-Anon Family Groups.

At my first meeting, I was very nervous not knowing what to expect. I was just hoping that I would get some answers. I soon realized that I wasn’t alone, that there were other mothers who were going through the same thing. I felt a sense of relief, like 100 tons were taken off my back.

During that first meeting, I saw a poster that read: “I didn’t cause it; I can’t control it, and I can’t cure it.” I knew right there and then that was guidance from God for me to read. After reading it a few times, it really made sense to me and I didn’t feel as guilty as before. I loved that meeting; listening to the others, and sharing really helped. I now look forward to weekly meetings. I’m so grateful for this Al-Anon program.

By Paulette A., Alberta, Canada
The Forum, January 2010

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