Curlyq,
My husband doesn't have a drinking problem as much as a problem when he is drinking. He doesn't drink often but the drinking culture here is such that when alot of people do drink they drink alot. Alot of what I have seen is party drinking but also I have seen the bad side of a few people including my husband. It's hard for him to go out with his friends because they are all partying hardy and he isn't drinking. Its kinda sad that they have to drink so much. It's socially acceptable to be fall on your face drunk. I don't get it. Because my husband can be a real jerk when he drinks he said he won't and would like the chance to give it up until we can find a resonable solution. I like to have a few drinks too socially but after all he did and said when he was drunk I am afraid of it even if he has a couple. Has to do with some childhood issues too. It's a big ugly and I don't know what a decent compromise is but for now we just aren't drinking.
I know loads about alocoholism. Father and first husband are recovering alcoholics. I have been down the treatment and AA/Alanon road. It's a great thing for alocoholics, family and friends. They do good work there and it's such a supportive environment.
Heidu