Do you butt in?

Addiction belongs to the addict. So the saying goes. Yet the addiction also belongs to the family, the saying 'I am only hurting myself' i the lie the addicted tell themselves to avoid the guilt they feel. Addicts are the only ones who can decide when or even if they want help. Sadly sometimes they either never decide, or decide too late to save any of what they loose. For your friend who is affected by his father's addiction I suggest you tell him about Alanon, Alateen if he is younger. Both are programs geared for the loved ones of persons suffering from addiction. Both can help in understanding not only the addiction but it's effect on you. The only time it is hopeless is when there is no longer breath. Recovery waits for every addict and denies none.