Beyond Addiction

Back in 2007, when I first was invited to share my weekly insights in this space, the intent was to answer queries from readers on everything from the genetic origins of alcoholism to the meaning of long-term recovery. When it comes to addiction, treatment and sobriety, I've gotten plenty of questions.

But in the past year or so, I have wandered to the point now that much of what I write has more to do with my experiences beyond my own addiction, especially the "life on life's terms" issues that prove so challenging to so many of us, whether or not alcohol or other drugs ever were our nemeses.

This week, I go back to the basics with a twist: Help me come up with answers to what these readers want to know. I figure there are enough experiences out there — professional and personal — worth more than just what I can offer.

From Marne C. in Boston: Can Jews get addicted like everyone else? My brother drinks way too much, but my dad and mom say that we're from a good Jewish family, so not to worry. There's not a lot of information out there one way or the other for me to know.

Pat D. in Nashville, Tenn., asks: My therapist is telling me I need to let go and let God help when it comes to my beloved son, Benny, an addict. I am a Christian of many years, but do you think it's really wise for me to expect God can take care of this mess without my help? Come on now. Benny is going to die.

From Doreen N. near Tampa, Fla.: Is it OK to take pain medication after my surgery and chemo for breast cancer?

In jail in southern Illinois, Eliza C. is desperate. Her 17-year-old daughter is using drugs: I don't want her to end up just like me, but I am in no position to persuade her to stop, so what can I do?

Armando S.

From Scott R. in Eugene, Ore.: I was a high-paid advertising executive. Then I got charged with felony possession, and I've burned all my bridges — divorced and can't even get a minimum-wage job. My kids won't talk to me, and I can't stand this much longer. Is recovery really worth it?

Tyler B. in Albany, N.Y., wonders whether "it is a common trait of drug addicts to suffer from a lack of self-esteem."

And Ryan O. from South Bend, Ind., asks: If willpower alone can't defeat alcoholism, how then does the alcoholic become part of the treatment-to-recovery process? He can't just be inert and not make the effort, can he?

Mai C. in Kenosha, Wis., has just completed outpatient treatment and is worried: Whenever I've used mouthwash recently, I've swallowed it and noticed I like the effect, just like drinking. Is this something I should be worried about?

And in a similar vein is Dave L. from Cedar Falls, Iowa: I'm a pretty good chef, and cooking wine is in the kitchen with a lot of other ingredients. Lately, it seems, more wine has been disappearing from the bottle in the cabinet. Coincidentally, my girlfriend was in treatment a year ago. Is there a connection I should be worried about?

Finally, from a colleague of mine in Minnesota: Should a world-renowned treatment center serve wine and beer to patrons at a big fundraiser next year?

Your answers are encouraged. I'll use them in this space in the weeks ahead.

In the meantime, I'll keep pontificating from my own perspective.

William Moyers is the vice president of foundation relations for the Hazelden Foundation and the author of "Broken," his best-selling memoirs, and "A New Day, A New Life." Please send your questions to William Moyers at wmoyers@hazelden.org. To find out more about William Moyers and read his past columns, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.

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