Comments on: Mel Gibson

By: Heather Maggs

Heather Maggs — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 14:07:24 +0000

Great post, Megan! I literally felt sick to my stomach for hours after listening to these recordings. I agree with Dianne that while there is absolutely no excuse for his behavior, I do feel a little sorry for him. He is obviously a sick man and needs help, but judging from his over the top reaction to his wife’s suggestion that he needs medication, I’m guessing he isn’t ready for help. And that is a tragedy. I know so many recovering alcoholics who have in the past (while drinking) engaged in horrible behaviors. Now, these individuals are fully sober and living wonderful, productive, alcohol-free lives. I hope that the release of these tapes helps people better understand emotionally and verbally abusive relationships and maybe encourages people (both victims and perpetrators) to seek help.

By: Erin Weed

Erin Weed — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 15:24:38 +0000

Dianne, that’s a great suggestion. (One of the awesome GFB speakers, Megan, wrote this post.) In many instances abuse, violence, mental illness, overexposure in public life and a zillion other life complexities contribute to big societal problems. For this reason, it’s critical that we don’t put up walls as educators and activists. We must collaborate.

By: Dianne Warren

Dianne Warren — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 21:17:15 +0000

Thanks for sharing this, Erin. And I agree 100% with your post.
I think it is important to note that Mel Gibson is an alcoholic who probably is actively drinking. This does NOT excuse his behavior in any way but unfortunately, as an alcoholic gets sicker, so does their behavior. I would suggest that anyone involved in the life of an alcoholic, whomever it may be (husband, parent, child family member, friend), consider attending the Family support group of Al-Anon for at least 6 meetings.