Ann reads from a pamphlet that tells the story of an alcoholic's progress through their illness in the form of a three-act play. The play includes a cast of characters who surround the alcoholic, deeply involved in their addiction and its consequences.

Act I: The drinker acts out the obsession and the immediate crisis or heavy drinking episode, while family and friends react with shock, anger, or cover-ups.

Act II: The enablers, family members, or coworkers take over, stepping in to fix the mess, absorb the consequences, and manage the fallout to keep life functioning.

Act III: The alcoholic returns to drinking or the cycle resets as everyone adjusts back to the familiar dysfunction, allowing the loop to start all over again.

The "A Merry-Go-Round Named Denial" address originally formed part of a workshop in 1968; today the important concepts remain true for most people in an alcoholic situation.

This episode is a repeat.

If you think that Al-Anon  could help you cope with someone else’s problem drinking then you can phone 1300 252 666 or go to their website al-anon.org.au

#Alcoholism #Al-Anon #Recovery

If you would like more information about Alcoholics Anonymous, they can be contacted on 1300 222 222 or go online at aa.org.au

The Living Free show may involve discussion of topics such as suicide, mental illness, self-harm and family violence. Please practise self-care and care of others when listening.