Not everyone trapped by alcohol is an alcoholic
There is help for families affected by problem drinking.
In extreme cases, an alcoholic may be homeless, but many live in families that are struggling because of the challenges that come with problem drinking.
Family members become lonely, isolated, ashamed and depressed. They feel that life has become unmanageable or unbearable. Al-Anon-Alateen Family Groups is a support programme for people who are living with or have lived with the problems of someone else's drinking.
Al-Anon and Alateen for young people offer understanding and personal growth - whether the alcoholic is still drinking or not. There are free of charge meetings daily around Auckland. To find one visit online here.
Members share their experiences of applying the Al-Anon principles to their lives. There is no advice given or specific direction suggested.
Below are a few thoughts from people who have tried Al-Anon:
"I believed that the only thing I needed to be happy and safe was for my husband to stop drinking."
"My life had got so out of control not knowing what my state my daughter would be in when I got home."
"I thought I was strong enough to deal with this on my own...After trying everything, I went to my first meeting."
Poll: Do you set New Year’s resolutions?
🎉 2026 is almost here!
We’re curious ... how do you welcome it?
Do you set resolutions, follow special traditions, or just go with the flow?
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10.4% Yes! New Year, New Me
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20.1% Yes - but I rarely stick to them
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69.5% Nah - not for me
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Send us your tricky puzzles!
Experienced Pet & House Sitter Available | 28 Jan – 22 Feb 2026
Hi everyone, due to a cancellation I've had a rare gap in my pet-sitting calendar open up, and would love to fill it with more pet cuddles. I am currently sitting in St Heliers and have lived in this community for many years before starting my house sitting journey, so would love to spend more time here.
A little about me:
- I’ve been a full-time house and pet sitter for 6 years, with all 5-star reviews
- I have fostered over 450 cats and kittens with the Lonely Miaow Association, and grew up on a lifestyle block with large dogs, cats, farm animals and small pets, so I’m confident with animals of all kinds (including those needing medication or extra care). I am also studying after-hours towards a Level 3 degree in Animal Care.
- I work from home 3-4 days a week (and spend the other 1-2 days as marketing manager in SPCA's Hobsonville Centre) so have plenty of time to spend with your precious pets
- As a homeowner myself, I know how important it is to feel your place and pets are in safe hands.
- This is a free sit!
If you’d like to see reviews or photos from past sits, you are welcome to check out my page here: www.facebook.com...
Happy to answer any questions. Please message me to discuss your petsitting needs.
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