Hi ladies
Very long story but DP has been struggling with depression and alcohol abuse for several years but has been out of work for an unrelated reason for the last 6 months and it has spiralled completely out of control. He is now drinking during the day, which he never has before and crying several times a day.
On the plus side, he has finally admitted the extent of his problems and sought help in the form of counselling and medication for his depression and alcohol support for his addiction. I am really proud of how far he has come and he is doing a lot better mentally now, but the physical addiction has become so severe that the alcohol support worker has said he needs a detox. This was promised over 3 months ago but never set in motion. DP is very keen to start but keeps being given different reasons why it can't start, including administrative changes, his missing a meeting (which was unfortunate, but an isolated incident for which he apologised), his not cutting doen enough on his own, his cutting down so mich that he is no longer drinking enough to justify it and various others. This is all true as I have attended the meetings.
He is very committed but struggling to do the gradual reduction as drinking a small amount leads to strong urges to drink more. He finds it much easier to abstain completely, but without detox medication, he has been experiencing severe side effects including seizures with this method. This has resulted in several A&E admissions.
We are really frustrated and considering alternatives. We really can't afford private rehab but on the other hand, things can't carry on like this. Does anyone have any suggestions, practical advice or stories to share? Many thanks.