Deciding whether to leave a loved one who has a drinking problem is one of the most difficult choices anyone can face. In this episode, Lou and John explore how to recognise when that moment has arrived, balancing compassion with the need to protect yourself and your family. They discuss the importance of safety, seeking objective advice, understanding your legal and financial position, and avoiding rushed decisions driven by guilt or fear. The conversation also examines children, boundaries, and preparing emotionally and practically, helping listeners make informed decisions while remembering that, apart from safety, the final choice is always their own.
For 1-2-1 counselling with John visit: https://bottled-up.com/1-to-1/
Please be very clear that, at Bottled Up we strongly advise people not to remain in violent or abusive relationships. We understand fully that in many cases circumstances can become untenable. We discuss this fully in our Podcast \"Should I Stay or Should I Go\".
For more information on the service Bottled Up provides, visit: www.bottled-up.com
Dr John McMahon is a professor and was the senior lecturer for addiction counsellors at the University of the West of Scotland. He has led prominent studies into alcohol addiction for more than 15 years. Before this, for many years, John had an addiction to alcohol. He has been sober for over 40 years.
Lou Lewis is a professional counsellor and the co-founder of Bottled Up with John. Lou's first husband had an addiction to alcohol for many years, from that experience and her counselling Lou has a deep understanding of the difficulties of living with problem drinkers.
John and Lou are married and live in England. They founded Bottled Up in the hope that it would help change your life.
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