Family had no help or understanding after son embarked on 'problematic relationship' with drugs, says Inverness mum
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The loneliness and stigma of having a child with a “problematic relationship” with drugs cannot be underestimated, says Linda.
Her son, in his mid-20s, is now getting his life back on track.
But Linda, who lives in Inverness, says there have been eight or nine “brutal” years of no help or understanding from services and a poor relationship with the police.
She has joined with others of a newly-formed peer-led support group in the city for families and friends affected by addiction in calling for change and ending the stigma.
It comes as the Scottish Government recently launched a campaign calling for drug and alcohol problems to be treated as a health condition and encouraging people to see the personal story behind the stereotype.
It aims to highlight the damage caused by the stigma of problem drug and alcohol use and how it can stop those affected from being able to get help.
Linda's son became involved in drugs began at the age 15 after she and his father separated and the chaos in the family left him vulnerable.
“He grew up in a house which was really confusing,” said Linda, who also felt other parents at her son’s school had been in denial about the availability of drugs.
“From my point of view as a parent, my son was left vulnerable because of post-separation behaviour and the fact that school and the police didn’t understand the impact of that on his ability to make good choices,” she said.
The biggest impact was on her daughter.
“She was compromised at school and in her own friendships,” Linda said.
“She lost her secondary education because school didn’t understand what was going on and she couldn’t make sense of what was going on.
“Her brother’s involvement with the police followed her through school.
“The impact on a sibling is significant.
“There is nowhere to get help. You are very much on your own and the shame, and humiliation and stigma cannot be underestimated.”
The new support group meets at Merkinch Community Centre every Tuesday from 10.30am to noon when people can get together for a chat and share their experiences.
Anyone wanting to join the group should call 07983 001962.
Stigma associated with addiction can lead to dark and lonely place
