Alcoholics and pain

Question
My father is an alcoholic. He doesn't admit it but I am sure of it. He is 63 years old and he's been under a lot of stress. Lately he's been complaining of pain in his leg and tiredness. Is this related to the fact that he's an alcoholic or is he simply getting old? Please I have another question: how do you show someone and make him realize that he's addicted to alcohol?

Thank you for your time


Answer

Beverley Glazer MA. IC

Hi Frankie,



There really isn't any way of knowing why your Dad has pain in his leg. He may have bumped into something while drunk, or is developing some physical probems only his Dr. can tell you this. He has to go for tests.  I suggest he makes an appointment with a physician. Alcoholics avoid doctor's appointments because they're affraid of the results, so you may have to book it and go with him.



Privately, you should tell the Doctor about his drinking because he probably won't talk about it.



To answer your 2nd question: Alcoholics will argue and defend drinking because they're in denial and don't want to stop. This self test may be

helpful. Print it and give it to him -- but there's no guarantee that he'll do it. Or that he'll get help with the problem.



Http://www.untwist-your-thinking.com/alcohol-addiction.html



There's really not much you can do about getting Dad to help himself, unless he becomes completely dysfunctional. But you can learn how to deal with him so you don't enable him. Check out the Al-Anon meetings in your area. The members can be very supportive and you'll get ideas on your roll in his addiction.



I hope this information is helpful



Thank you for asking AllExperts,



Regards



Bev

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