Addicts often spiral downward into such a dark depression that life is never again the same. There are, however, those addicts who manage the pain in a different way — by making an impact on the lives of others. Sometimes the best advocates for drug prevention are those who have recovered from an addiction themselves, and the best treatment professionals can be those who have been treatment patients in the past.
Helping others overcome addiction or preventing people from using is very therapeutic for someone affected by addiction, as helping others strengthens a recovered addict’s resolve to stay sober by watching others fighting the battle. And to be assured that another parent won’t have to go through the pain can offer a grieving parent some much-needed comfort.
Sheila Savitz lost her son to drug abuse and said, “I lost my battle but I’m never going to give up trying to help them fight theirs.” (1) Savitz has since dedicated her life to helping hundreds get into treatment. While it can never bring back her son, she can see the benefits of her work today. Nearly every treatment facility, prevention program and drug prevention bill going through legislation includes families who have lost someone to drug abuse, and within those families are individuals compelled to make a difference in the lives of others.
Sources:
(1) Portales woman dedicated to fighting drug abuse
Suncoast mothers fight back against prescription drug abuse
Brother’s addiction spurs senator’s support for changes to drug laws
I am a mother of a drug addicted 23 year old. I have moved him in and out of my home trying or enabling his addiction. My mother has also played into his drug minipulation. We have both had enough. But now we are left with guilt,depression,and not knowing if we did the right thing by cutting him off. As far as we know he is homeless. He blames us for not helping him more. He has no health insurance,no job, driving an illigal uninsured vehicle and has a warrent for his arrest for not showing up for traffic court.He is not the same person any longer. It is almost like he is another person. Even when he was clean for a few months he never really snapped back. What is wrong? Have I let him down? What can I do ?
Hi,
First of all I want to ensure you this is not your fault. Your feelings support our view that Addiction is a family disease. The addicts behavior affects everyone that they interact with, particularly those who love them. Addicts are masters of manipulation, they will do anything they can to continue using. This includes many of the behaviors you are describing. Our call center staff is well trained on finding help for anyone who calls in. We have a specific department dedicated to helping those with little resources. I suggest you call – 877-417-6237.
Also here are some links to additional resources:
Check out the video on this page: http://www.treatmentsolutions.com/families-addiction-treatment/
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/drug_substance_abuse_addiction_signs_effects_treatment.htm#loved
This is another group we work with: http://www.parents4achange.net/
Hope this helps.