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All the stories, people, and quotes described in this blog are real. However, people's names and biographical details have been changed to conceal their identity and protect their privacy.
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Q: Someone smelled alcohol on me at work and I was suspended. My anger and frustrations are affecting my marriage and work. What do I do?
--George V.
A: First, you're not alone. I've helped quite a few other men who've struggled with alcohol and it's affect on their work. One guy is a doctor and he was suspended by his licensing board last year, but after getting treatment was able to go back to work. Another guy had to go to counseling for a while before his company would let him come back to work. Be hopeful -- most guys are able to keep their jobs if they will get help.
Second, the anger and frustrations you have in your marriage and work are a sign that some other things are going on for you besides the alcohol. Most often the use of alcohol is way we medicate ourselves to help deal with some other issues. Anger management classes would probably really help you.
Lastly, your first step needs to be your being proactive in dealing with your work suspension. Men who respond to this with the attitude that it's a wake-up call and an opportunity have the best outcomes. This means following any instructions or recommendations your employer makes; getting a professional counselor to assess you and make treatment recommendations; developing an action plan and implementing it.
--Kurt Smith, Marriage Counselor
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