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Alcoholism is a threat that affects more than just the drinker; it also has a profound impact on the alcoholic’s family and loved ones. But hope is not lost. So long as there is a will to change and survive, an individual can overcome alcoholism’s vicious effect.
It is never easy to share a traumatic experience. It is probably one of the most selfless and bravest acts to retell an experience so others can learn from it. It only shows the bravery author Margaret Jackson Moschak depicted with her published memoir, My Alcoholic, My Love: My Love and Loss of an Alcoholic Husband.
The core theme of the book memoir is how to save yourself and your family from a toxic and destructive relationship brought on by an alcoholic family member. Emotionally gripping and overflowing with hope and inspiration, My Alcoholic, My Love exemplifies the realities of living with an alcoholic and that it is possible to survive and live life again, coming from a broken and disastrous relationship.
The Author in Her Element
With so many books that already talked about alcoholism, why did the author choose to tackle alcohol addiction? Probably the move came from more than the subject of alcoholism. When she wrote her book, Margaret Moschak was in her element and was not coming from an academic point of view. She was determined to share her story to inspire and help other people who find themselves in the same situation. Her intention for My Alcoholic, My Love came from the heart, making the book all the more heartwarming and outstanding.
Margaret Moschak came from a place where no woman or mother wanted to find themselves. Margaret’s story involved an alcoholic husband, who took a toll and a heavy strain on their family, life, and work. The author shared that despite all visible signs of her husband’s alcoholism, even before they were married, she chose to turn a blind eye to them. Her husband, Roger, drank to ease any discomfort arising from any problem. Roger became a different person after a drink or two. He was pleasant and relaxed and became a more enjoyable partner; that’s why the author elected to overlook his drinking problems.
But when the alcohol’s effect started to wane and fade out, Margaret realized she could no longer ignore the problem when drinking became uncontrollable. Her husband’s alcoholism leads to a family beset with severe personal issues. And when the problems became too many and all too much to bear, Margaret decided she had to do something about it while it was not yet too late to save her family.
The Al-Anon Family
One of the highlights and perhaps the most momentous occasion in the author’s life is when she discovered the Al-Anon Family with her friend and sister-in-law’s help and support. Al-Anon then became the tool that pulled Margaret and her children back to life, towards safety and security.
The Al-Anon Family Group is a mutual support group that provides help and support to individuals or families with drinking problems. Al-Anon is a venue where participants can openly share their experiences, thoughts, ideas, and even what keeps them strong during adversities and gives them hope. What better way to come up with life’s solutions than learning from other people’s experiences, inspirations, and motivations?
Alcoholism in Overview
Alcoholism, if not treated at the earliest instance, will become a progressive illness that gets worse over a long time. Alcoholism, also known as alcohol addiction or dependence, is typically defined as the most severe form of addiction towards alcoholic forms of beverages. A person who has alcohol addiction, or is an alcoholic, usually puts their overall health at risk.
Physical health risks include heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, digestive problems, or, worst case, cancer diseases.
Mental health risks involve anxiety, depression, psychosis, and other antisocial behaviors such as aggressiveness or severe mood changes. In extreme cases, alcoholism can lead to self-harm behaviors or even suicide.
Treating the Alcoholic
Alcoholism should be treated at the earliest time the symptoms start showing. There are many available treatments, including medical or medication treatment, behavioral or psychosocial, or even support group treatment.
Before choosing the type of treatment, it is best to gather as much information on the alcoholic as possible because the best kind of treatment is the one that’s tailored fit for them. Most of all, the treatment should always come with support from family or friends. Any support will help boost the alcoholic’s confidence in seeking treatment, making them realize that no matter what, people are rooting for their health.
The Author at Present
Margaret Moschak worked in various fields where she was exposed to different types of people, which led her to understand their diverse nature and how they interact. She was employed as a secretary in a welfare office and taught in high school. She encouraged young students to love reading. She also worked alongside local politics and managed art exhibiting groups.
Ms. Moschak earned an M.A. at the State University of New York at Albany.
Currently, the author is in Ithaca, New York, where she is a Taoist Tai Chi instructor. She has three sons, a daughter, and five grandchildren.
Nothing is impossible, so long as the person puts their heart and will in along with their passion. Just like Margaret’s love for her family that led her to make a drastic move for their survival, it is very much possible to survive a seemingly impossible situation.
Grab a copy of My Alcoholic, My Love: My Love and Loss of an Alcoholic Husband on Amazon, or visit the author’s website at www.myalcoholicmylove.com.
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