Dependence in families: She was the accomplice to his addiction

Heidrun F. recounts the early days of her relationship with her husband, Peter, describing a time when everything seemed effortless and joyful. The couple met in 2001 at an advertising agency, where Peter held the position of art director and Heidrun worked as an account manager. Their shared enjoyment of wine was a common pastime.

While Heidrun typically drank one or two glasses, Peter's consumption was higher, often a bottle a night, sometimes more. "I didn't notice that his consumption was problematic, I saw everything through rose-tinted glasses," Heidrun admits, reflecting on her initial inability to recognize the growing issue.

This period, characterized by parties and travel, masked the underlying problem. Heidrun's perception was clouded, preventing her from seeing the extent of Peter's dependence until much later. The article, part of ZEIT am Wochenende's 27/2020 issue, delves into the complexities of addiction within a family.

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I didn't notice that his consumption was problematic, I saw everything through rose-tinted glasses.