With all respect GW, one of the devices an alcoholic uses is to allow other people to accept responsibility for the alcoholic's actions. This inevitably damages the alcoholic as well, because it defers the time when the drinker has to make decisions. It is a horrible sight to watch loved ones destroy themselves with alcohol. It is not the onlooker's responsibility though. Only the alcoholic can change the situation. Only at that point can a friend be of any assistance - no matter how much the friend wants to help.