January 6, 2006

Supporting those affected by alcoholism

According to national studies, approximately 17 million Americans abuse alcohol or are alcoholic. Fifty-three percent of people in the United States report that one or more of their relatives has a drinking problem. And one of every four children in the United States is affected by substance abuse in his or her family.

Recovery from addictions like alcoholism affects everyone in an individual's social
network. Family relationships and friendships dramatically change, and significant efforts must be made to help families transition into recovery along with the alcoholic or addict.

Five years ago, a discussion group formed at the MGH to meet the needs of families and friends of people affected by substance abuse. Sponsored by the MGH Addictions Service, the Department of Psychiatry and the Blum Patient and Family Learning Center, the Family Alcoholism Education Series averages between 15 and 25 people at each weekly session.

The discussion and support group is a free service to the greater Boston community as well as to patients, family members, other concerned persons, hospital employees and individuals who are looking for support and information. Attendees often include spouses, adult children, co-workers, parents, health care professionals and friends of those with substance abuse problems. Individuals in recovery also come to the group to provide support for family members and friends and often find hope that recovery is possible.

"It is not a therapy group or a 12-step meeting but rather a group of people who care about one another and the people they know who are suffering or are in different stages of recovery," says Maureen McGlame, MEd, MGH West End Clinic therapist and addictions counselor, who serves as the group facilitator.

The group is an ongoing resource that meets weekly on Thursdays, from 5:30 to
6:30 pm at the Blum Patient and Family Learning Center.

For more information, contact McGlame at (617) 726-9216 or at mcglame@partners.org.