Dear Family Members:

I am a chemically dependent person and I need help!

Chemical dependency is a family illness and needs total involvement of my family.

Don't allow me to lie to you and accept it for the truth.  In doing so, you encourage me to lie.  The truth may be painful, but get at it.

Don't let me outsmart you.  This only teaches me to avoid responsibility and to lose respect for you at the same time.

Don't let me exploit you or take advantage of you, blame or argue when I'm drunk, high, or sober.  And don't pour out my liquor or take away my drugs.  You may feel better, but the situation will be worse.

Don't accept my promises.  This is just my method of postponing pain.  And don't keep switching agreements.  If an agreement is made, stick to it.

Don't lose your temper with me.  It will destroy any possibility of helping me. 

Don't do what I must do for myself.

Don't cover up or clean up the consequences of my drug use.  It reduces the crisis but perpetuates the illness.

Above all, don't run away from reality as I do.  Chemical dependency, my illness, gets worse as my use continues.  Start to learn, to understandand to plan for my recovery.  I need help from a doctor, a counselor, a psychologist or a recovering alcoholic / addict.  And from God.  I cannot help myself.

I hate myself but I love you.  To do nothing is the worst choice you can make for us.

Please help me,

Your addicted person