Interview with an Alcoholic Soccer Mom

Millions of Americans battle addiction every day. Whether it be to food, shopping, drugs or alcohol, Addiction is a very real disease that cripples people and destroys families. I recently had the honor of sitting down to interview a very dear person to me who is six months into her recovery and was not only willing, but anxious to share her story. This is the story of "Nina," a loving and productive mother of three who secretly fueled her addiction to alcohol while caring for her children and family.

LR: Thank you for sitting down with me. Although we discussed this and you are very passionate about sharing your struggles to help others, please know you don't need to answer any questions that make you uncomfortable or are too personal.

Nina: I have learned that secrets do nothing but feed the fire, so you can ask me anything. We have been friends for years and I trust you completely. Ask away.

LR: What was your experience with alcohol prior to the last few years?

Nina: I partied in high school. When all my friends were smoking pot, I would be very happy with my beer or wine. As I went into my twenties, I spent alot of time in bars on Friday and Saturday nights, staying until last call. I always really liked to get a buzz, I was somewhat shy and a few drinks would loosen me up and let me be more outgoing. After I got married and started having kids, I would drink on the weekends or at family parties, sometimes too much, but I still didn't think it was a problem. I never, ever drank when I was pregnant, but I remember choosing not to breastfeed after my babies were born so that I could drink on the weekends.

LR: Did you feel any guilt about not breastfeeding your children because you would rather have the option to drink?

Nina: Not really. Although I know that breastfeeding is the best choice for babies, I really felt that formula was ok, and that I needed the outlet that drinking gave me to relieve stress and be a better mother.

LR: How do you feel about it now?

Nina: If I could go back and change it, I would. I see now that that was the beginning of my addiction and that my decision was based on the dependence on alcohol I had even back then.