[Decision to join a mutual aid group]

Alcoholism affects not only the alcoholic but the entire family. Spouses of alcoholics often withdraw emotionally and their health deteriorates. This unhealthy adaptive behavior to the drug dependency of another is defined as co-dependency. Some spouses reach for help while others do not. Support groups, like Al-Anon, have been known to help spouses disengage from a co-dependent relationship. Based on the Miller decision-making model, this study focuses on the psychological, environmental and cognitive factors involved in deciding to participate in a support group. The differences between the two groups of spouses are highlighted. Those who choose to participate have a higher level of preoccupation with family life, a higher incidence of health problems and a longer period of exposure to alcoholic behavior. They have also received support from various drug addiction centres, giving them a better knowledge of the disease and a positive view of support groups. The non-participants are mostly younger, have less exposure to their spouses' alcoholic behavior, are less educated and give the impression of knowing everything about alcoholism and group support. They also feel they do not need treatment for themselves. The author explores ways nurses can reach this population.