[faithfamily]

Hi all, I'm new to PC and think I have found the right forum to post my concern. My girlfriend of years is 30 days into 45 day alcohol treatment center and doing well. Diagnosed as mild/moderate. We speak via phone 1-2 times per week and I have visited onsite once. I will briefly describe the situation and ask you guys/gals the question I'm struggling with. She is doing good, earned the respect and trust of her therapist, and elected small group leader by her peers in the treatment center. Her ex-husband and father to her child has just decided to move into our hometown in four weeks. What was once a respectful and manageable distance 45 minutes away now puts him in our neighborhood. This changes many dynamics. I am struggling with whether/or not to share this "breaking news" with her. I do not want to jeopardize her recovery process or add stress, drama, ill-feelings, etc. Do I consider it "important" in this overall process? Do I share it with her therapist first so that therapist decides the best approach? I do not want to cause mistrust between myself and my girlfriend, which means, alternatively I would address it directly with her. Your thoughts, prior experiences, and perspectives are very much appreciated. -faithfamily

[Altered Moment]

It may be the best time to tell her as she will have the support of those in the treatment center. After you get out of treatment you feel kind of lost and alone for awhile. If she is doing well in treatment I am sure she feels it is a very safe and nurturing environment. When I was in treatment I got very close to my peers even though we didn't stay in contact for long after.

I say tell her yourself while she is in and has a lot of support. Living sober means learning how to deal with these situations without drugs or alcohol, not avoiding them.

[faithfamily]

Thank you zinco, I appreciate you taking the time to write. I have struggled with the decision for a couple of days and I understand the value in your knowledge and prior experience. I appreciate all the encouragement from the people here.
Preparing myself for her return seems difficult. I ALSO want to discover and learn from others here -the things I can do/or not do so that I am supportive and an asset to continued recovery at home. She (and anyone) who commits to recovery have my utmost respect and admiration. Thank you to all who read and help!