Chemical dependency has taken more than one person down into the depths of despair and will continue to do so. However, Albert Lea has a couple of valuable resources to help anyone who wants to break their addiction &045; Fountain Center and 12-step programs.

The cost of alcohol and drug dependency affects more than an individual &045; family is also affected, as is society, to the tune of an estimated $27 billion a year in lost productivity, health care expenses, crime and motor vehicle accidents. Untreated addiction is more expensive than heart disease, diabetes and cancer combined.

Roughly 18 million Americans have alcohol problems, and more than 9 million children live with a parent dependent on alcohol or illicit drugs.

During Alcohol Awareness month, we encourage those with addictions to seek out the help of qualified counselors at the center, who are trained to aid the recovery of the whole person &045; physical, mental, social, spiritual.

Since 1974, the center has been committed to helping alcoholic and drug dependent individuals and their families recover from the treatable illness.

Albert Lea also hosts a variety of 12-step programs to help people through recovery. Each meeting has its own distinct focus to reach as many people as possible.

Take a moment to examine your life patterns and if you have a problem, seek help.