Sober Siblings, How to Help your Alcoholic Brother or Sister -and Not Lose Yourself

I received a very nice postcard with a handwritten message today, and when it comes to direct mail, this is always a smart way to capture someone's attention. The clean and understated image of two cups of coffee with the title Sober Siblings, How to Help your Alcoholic Brother or Sister‑-and Not Lose Yourself intrigued me, and also happens to be audience appropriate. I was quite curious to go online and find out more about the book. Sober Siblings is written by New Jersey author, Patricia Olsen and is told through her personal experience, along with stories from other siblings of alcoholics, aided by the wisdom of addiction specialist Dr. Petros Levounis. Sober Siblings explores the effects of alcoholism on sibling relationships and offers practical advice on: the nature of alcoholism; feelings of shame, frustration, hopelessness, and anger; the difference between helping and enabling; setting and maintaining boundaries; co-addictions and dual diagnoses; pros and cons of family interventions; treatment options for your sibling and therapy options for you.

Hear Pat’s memories of a sobering childhood ( I found out Pat grew up in the area I live in today)

Read the Q&A

Order the Book

Real People, Real Recovery: Effectively Delivering Recovery-Oriented Systems of Care

In 2006, an estimated 22.6 million persons aged 12 or older were classified with substance dependence or abuse in the past year. Of these, only 4.0 million received some kind of treatment for a problem related to the use of alcohol or illicit drugs. Luckily, a host of services exists for those who need them. From 12-step programs to in-patient and out-patient treatment, from recovery-oriented housing to sober recreational activities like those celebrated each September during Recovery Month, there's an entire network of treatment and support services available for those dealing with substance abuse and mental health disorders.

A Webcast program developed by the the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) examines some of those services, and explores ways to increase awareness and better deliver services to those who need them. Watch Webcast