Sullivan wrote:

Dear Beliefnet Members,

  I am going through the most difficult time in my life.  I am unemployed, going through a heartbreaking divorce, and have moved back in with my mother and father.  For most of my life I have had to struggle hard with depression and low self esteem.  I have grown up in a dysfunctional family where various forms and levels of abuse occurred.  Right now I feel very lost, lonely, and abandoned.

  Recently I began working with a therapist who is a strong promoter of various 12 step programs.  My therapist believes that I would benefit from attending a local meeting of Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunctional Families. 

  I have been reading some of the literature on Adult Children and dysfunctional family systems and it seems like it could be very helpful.  Despite this, I am afraid to go to the meeting because I am afraid of facing these issues I have with people I dont know, and I dont know if this meeting would help me as I dont generally believe in a Higher Power.

  My parents were not alcoholics but they were/are abusive at times.  Would I "fit in" at a meeting of Adult Children?

  I guess what I am really looking for here is information on what I might expect at a first meeting of Adult Children, and some support.

  I'm really lost and depressed these days and I am hoping the Adult Children group can help me, but I am leary of it due to past negative experiences with therapists and organized religion.

  Thank you for reading and for your consideration.
  Best wishes,

  Sully

Just go and listen. You don't have to say anything if you do not want to. By listening you will hook up with people you identify with. You can always leave at any time. You can in addition go to AA open meetings and listen. It helps also.

The apprehension about going is normal. Most 12 step groups are friendly. There is nothing to fear.

Write back and let everybody know how it went.
Good Luck

Sullivan wrote:

Hi Kapha44,

  Thanks for your info and support. 
  I did go to the meeting and I felt very supported.  I even introduced myself and shared a little.  It was scary and empowering at the same time. 
  I felt like I was betraying my family by going to the meeting and talking about my family problems, but I guess that is part of the symptoms of growing out of a dysfunctional family. 

  Best wishes,
  Sull

My parents were normal. They were both dysfunctional. I'm kidding of course.

At meetings people describe their circumstances family or whatever in a general way. Your worthy of recovery so I'm sure your family would support you in that regard.

Wishing you continued success on your journey.

Kapha