One of the most common things that happens with the families of drug users is that they think there is a problem, they’re sure there’s some kind of problem, but they can’t identify it. A drug user will exploit their uncertainty to deny everything and continue to use drugs.
This really is a strange phenomenon. One might think that when a drug user starts running into problems caused by the drugs, they might lay off the drugs or ask for help. Well, a few do. But when a person is truly gripped by addiction and driven by cravings, it’s very common that they cover up their drug use and manipulate those around him (or her).
Even if a family finds drugs on the person or in the home, the user will still try to manipulate the situation. “Those don’t belong to me,” or “I only did it this once.” Or maybe, “Yes, I was using a few pills [plus cocaine plus marijuana plus heroin that go unmentioned] but I can quit.”
This is one of the saddest things about addiction. The condition itself prevents the person from getting help. It’s like addicts become wired to prevent detection or recovery.
Certainly there are a few exceptions. But when this deception exists, it can delay rehabilitation by years. Meanwhile, the problems get worse and worse. Families are mystified as to why the person’s life continues to fall apart.
Guide for Helping Someone Overcome Addiction
To help families deal with just this situation, last year we created the Family Help Guide. Wherever you are in the whole process of getting help for someone, this guide can help you find your way. It starts at “I think there’s a problem but I don’t know what it is,” proceeds through “What drug are they using?” and “Are they addicted?” and winds up with advice on how to find the right recovery help.
At Narconon we have seen how hard it is for everyone involved in addiction and we want to help. It our hope that you will find advice here that can help you better understand where things are at and what to do.
You can find the Family Help Guide on our website, here: http://www.narconon.org/drug-abuse/addiction-help-guide.html.
Please feel free to share this with someone else who might need some guidance right now.
