Annie’s Mailbox: Call police when uncle gets violent

Dear Annie: I’m 18 years old and still live with my family. A few months ago, my uncle moved in with us. He comes home drunk all the time. I can smell the liquor on him, and I hate it. I make sure to be in my bedroom before he walks in the front door, which often means I’m upstairs by 6 p.m.

I want nothing to do with him when he is drunk. He tries to hold my baby brother, but it makes the baby cry, so I have told my uncle to stay away. I want to tell him how I feel, but I’m not sure how. When my mother told him he’s not welcome in the house when he’s been drinking, he hit her.

What should I do? Should I ask my grandma to kick him out, or should I move into my own place? – Niece of a Drunk

Dear Niece: If your uncle is physically abusive, he should not be living with you. By all means, talk to your grandmother and your mother. If possible, talk to your father, as well. Most likely, your mother believes she is helping your uncle, who obviously has a problem, but allowing him to terrorize you is not the way to do it.

Suggest that she contact Al-Anon (al-anon.alateen.org) at 1-888-4-AL-ANON (1-800-425-2666). If your uncle hits anyone again, call the police. And if you cannot change the situation, we urge you to move out as soon as possible.