(Annie Lane is on vacation. The following column was published in 2021.)
Dear Annie:
You’ve had several letters recently about people drinking too much. I’ve been researching this topic since my niece died of organ failure a few weeks ago after years of drinking alcohol. She wouldn’t take advice from anyone, but now her problems are over.
The best I have found is research by William Porter, a British lawyer who gave up drinking seven years ago. He has written several books on the subject of alcohol. His website is http://www.alcoholexplained.com.
The first five chapters of his book, Alcohol Explained, can be read online for free. Once you read about what alcohol does to your brain, you’ll never go back. He has written several other books and videos. All are thought-provoking. – Carolyn A.
Dear Carolyn:
I am so sorry that this insidious disease has claimed your niece’s life. I have read the five chapters of Alcohol Explained available online. As you have noted, the author is a lawyer, not a doctor, but he provides a clear and useful overview of the chemistry behind the disease of alcoholism.
I don’t share the view of Alcoholics Anonymous that he expresses in the introduction. However, I know that some people struggling with alcohol problems want alternatives to AA, and that self-education through books like this one can be helpful. (Other good options are Families Anonymous and LifeRing Secular Recovery.)
How to Forgive My Cheating Partner is now available! Annie Lane’s second anthology – featuring popular columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation – is available in paperback and e-book. Visit http://www.creatorspublishing.com for more information. Send your questions to Annie Lane at [email protected] 2024 CREATORS.COM
