Most are desperate. They're surprised about this baby they brought from the hospital a few years ago.
Overnight they have this drug creature in their home. One that steals and lies. Someone they love disintegrating right in front of them. A living nightmare. Trust is gone.
Sometimes the kid blames mom or dad like it's their fault. Some parents accept that. Where did I go wrong? Why didn't I see this coming?
They're torn about what to do. Some spend money on beach side treatment. Once in a while a parent says they're supporting the drug habit because they don't want the kid in pain. Or the child's living with them for free while chasing their addiction.
I sense the emotion - the raw pain - behind their words. I want to give them something to help them feel better. To take away their pain, confusion, and anxiety.
Maybe a mantra. A shortcut. A way to let them down easy from the challenges they have in their lives.
But I'd be lying. Because there's no "easy" when dealing with an addict family member.
When we take someone's drugs or alcohol there's pain. When we ask them to stop, to change, it's painful.
And I tell them all the same thing. If you want to help, offer to get them to recovery. To treatment.
If they don't want to stop, then quit helping. You'll only prolong the misery - yours and theirs. It's either treatment or no more help.
It may sound cold and clinical. But so is the morgue. And that's where many end up.
It takes true courage to confront addiction - but that's what it takes to bring about change.
