Richard grew up in a large Christian family in suburban Melbourne. Although his childhood was not affected by problem drinking, he learned as a young child to take care of his mother, and to feel responsible when she suffered as a result of her mood disorder.  It wasn't until his early adulthood that Richard began to drink large amounts of alcohol and to learn that this gave him relief from a sense of pressure, allowing him to feel comfortable and happy. Drinking eventually resulted in Richard's life becoming unmanageable, until he found recovery in AA. When Richard found himself becoming affected by a loved one's drinking, he found support in Al-Anon.