When does a heavy drinker realize "enough is enough"? lives are being ruined. what can we do to help them?

Tragic: Yes it is tragic how alcoholics impact the lives of so many. Until the alcoholic recognizes that there is a problem, little can be done. The most important thing is to not enable them. Let them experience the consequences of their addiction without any help from outside. Perhaps that will bring about the realization that something needs to change.

Intervention: Ultimately, they have to recognize that they have a problem and decide that they want to get better. An intervention is when friends and family gather and help the drinker to see the damage they are causing and help them to decide to get help. Seek out your local aa or celebrate recovery group for specific help and advice for this.

Tough love: Codependency is one of the biggest problems with heavy drinkers, especially alcoholics. Those around him/her should recognize these traits and make a concerted effert to not support the habit. Being a codependent will only hurt the alcoholic and keep him/her drinking. Sometimes it is best to practice "tough love" and be strong.