Al-Anon saved me from past demons; Just Joan CATCH UP ON JUST JOAN ONLINE www.dailyrecord.co.uk/joanburnie.

Byline: joan burnie 

Q I AM in my late 30s, married with two wonderful girls and, a few years ago, I was fortunate enough to find Al-Anon.

As you know, they are the group who help family and friends of alcoholics.

It had been a lot of years since I had actually lived with an alcoholic, but the experience had thrown me into depression and way out of control.

But Al-Anon got my life back on track and, although my life is now by no means a bed of roses, it is manageable and calm.

The damage that alcohol does to those around the alcoholic can't be over estimated.

As it did with me, it can last for many years.

A YOU'VE dealt with your own problem, but I'm still printing your letter because I think it might well help others who are suffering in a similar way to you.

As you say, the emotional aftereffects of having lived with someone - not necessarily a partner, but maybe a parent - with a drink problem can last a life time.

I know Al-Anon are not for everyone, but there is no doubt that the organisation have helped incalculable numbers of people.

Call them any day, 10am to 10pm, on 0141 339 8884.