Dear Aunty Lisa,
I’m writing to you because I don’t know who else to turn to. My son John has developed a serious drug problem and it’s tearing our family apart. A few months ago I started noticing changes in his behavior – he was restless, irritable, losing weight. I confronted him and he admitted that he had been smoking crystal meth (Mutoriro).
At first it was just on weekends with his friends but now I think he’s using every day. He stays in his room for days on end and only comes out to beg for money. When he’s high he gets paranoid and lashes out at me and his father. We’ve tried talking to him about getting help but he refuses. He says the drugs are the only thing keeping him sane.
I’m at my wit’s end, Aunty Lisa. My husband and I are constantly fighting because we don’t know what to do. This is destroying our family. Please, please tell me what you think we should do. I feel like I’m losing my son and I don’t know how to help him.
Thank you,
Mai John
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Dear Mai John,
I’m so sorry to hear about what’s happening with John. Meth addiction is a terrible disease that affects the whole family. The most important thing now is getting John into treatment as soon as possible. Don’t wait for him to be ready – as his parents, you need to stage an intervention.
Reach out to a drug rehab facility and find out what they recommend for an intervention. Have other family members and close friends involved. Be firm but loving – tell John the addiction ends now and rehab is not optional. Don’t argue or get emotional, just repeat that help is non-negotiable.
If he refuses, call emergency services for a psychiatric evaluation and involuntary commitment. I know that seems drastic, but it may end up saving his life. Once in treatment, support his recovery however you can. Attend family programs and meetings. Make your home a safe, drug-free space. Have hope – many have recovered from even the worst addictions.
Stay strong and remember this disease wants to destroy your family. You have the power to fight back and get John the help he needs. Feel free to write me again if you need more support. You’ve got this – just take the first brave step towards intervention and rehab.
Love,
Aunty Lisa
