05/19/2026
The hidden family illness that affects everyone.
“I went to an interview for a job. During the interview, I gave every reason why I wasn’t qualified for it while the kind gentleman just listened. After I finished, he smiled and asked me if I was an adult child of an alcoholic. I was surprised by the question and a bit miffed that he would ask such a personal question. However, I told him that my father had been an alcoholic. I also asked him why he wanted to know. He said he thought I had the characteristics of an adult child. I asked for an explanation because I had no clue what he meant by adult child. He said alcoholism is a family disease that affects everyone in it and that family members often develop certain characteristics to cope with the disease. I explained that my father had passed away and I didn't feel that his drinking had any impact on me. He handed me a pamphlet which explained the disease. It showed the different characteristics and explained them. I was amazed that my family fit the description like a glove. I was the lost child—withdrawn, emotionally distant, aloof, and very independent. I could no longer deny that I was, in fact, greatly affected by the disease of alcoholism.”
“Back to Step One,” “The Forum” December 2018
Is there a history of alcoholism in your family? Maybe Al-Anon can help.
Meeting info:
🔹 US/Puerto Rico/Bermuda/Canada: goo.gl/DcR3qn
🔹 Other areas: goo.gl/V4319R
🔹 Online/phone: https://bit.ly/3j10N09
