If H has a drinking problem and is willing to do something about it, there is help, and not just AA. There are 2 medications that have proven quite successful if used along with group therapy and counseling. The first is Naltrexone. This medication helps eliminate the cravings for alcohol. Also, if he should drink while taking it, he won't get the buzz he normally gets. He may get stupid and fall down, but no buzz to speak of. Also, if he takes any opiate based pain medication, it (the pain med) will have no effect.
The second is Campral. This medication helps retore the chemical balance in the brain that becomes distorted after years of drinking. These medications need to be taken for 6 months. They are non-mind-altering and work well with other meds like anti-anxiety agents that H may have to take when he first quits. If he chooses to go to AA, tell him to keep his mouth shut about meds. They are somewhat close-minded about this, which is why you haven't heard more about these drugs. Please look into them.
David
The fires of true love can never be quenched, because the source of its flame is God Himself! - Shulamith
