In the Shallows

I’m not saying I cried at the end of “A Star is Born”, but my allergies did flare up enough to require a tissue…

Not only is it a love story about two star crossed lovers, it also gives a pretty good depiction of the before, during and after effects of drug and alcohol addiction. So let’s chat…

We all have been touch, at some time in our lives, by addiction. Perhaps it’s not you, personally, but maybe a brother, sister, father, mother, husband, wife, child or friend. Many will claim it’s a choice. You chose to do X,Y and Z. At first you are correct, however, that is not always the case and if it were, we all would be an addict. Ever have surgery and prescribed pain meds? Many of us don’t have a problem as long as we follow the directions on the bottle. I’m a firm believer, and there are studies that depict this as well, that addiction is a little more psychological then we would first believe.

Ever heard of the phase “drown my sorrow?” It’s not because you cry a lot. Or “drink my blues/cares away?” The question we should be asking is, what lead them to this place? How and why did they chose this path?

For many in the greater Morgan County area it’s a matter of family tradition, a vicious cycle. “Mom /dad did drugs, now I’m gonna try them out. Got nothing for me any way.” That’s not true. The world is your oyster. There are always other paths. For others it may be a series of unfortunate events that lead them to self medicate. Either way, many times there is a reason why they chose to follow the path of least resistance. Isn’t is easier to try and forget rather than face truths? The truth may be scary and unbearable but something that must be addressed to move forward. There is help out there.

We all have seen it before, interventions, family meetings but the truth is you can’t force an addict to get clean. They, the addict, is truly the only one that can make that choice. Even then it’s a process measured in little successes and often baby steps. It is not something that happens over night and may even take years of hard work and struggle. Many will fall from grace and pick themselves up and try again. It’s part of the growing pains. It’s not always the drugs or alcohol that is craved but the need for their personal normal.

Addicts that spent years dealing with addiction may not know how to function sober. They may feel out of place, not knowing how or what to do. They also have to separate themselves from those things that may have triggered cravings in the past; friends house, the bar, a stressful day. They struggle everyday to keep on the straight and narrow.

This often brings with it the sense of being alone and other signs of depression. They may feel as if those failures of the past are unforgivable instead of just stepping stones. Mistakes are made to learn from, not to obsess over. When you hit rock bottom the only way, truly, is up. Plus, rock bottom makes a pretty good foundation to build from. Don’t take the easy out. Fight for life. Battle your demons. There are always people out there willing to lend a helping hand, a shoulder to cry on, or an ear to listen.

Mom, Dad have that conversation about drugs and alcohol with your kids. Every parent parents differently and I’m not here to tell you what to do but sometimes those hard conversations need to be had. Make sure they understand the effects that can come from those choices. Set the bar high and be good examples.

If you or a loved one is fighting addiction and would like some help call the national addiction hotline at 1800-662-HELP or seek out you local rehab facility.

If you are depressed and having thoughts of suicide call the national suicide hotline at 1800-273-8255 or your local law enforcement.

With that, my ear is available for listening at anytime, day, night, and even weekends. Having a hard day? Message me and we’ll talk it out or give me a call.

Also watch “A Star is Born”. Bradley Cooper ages like a fine wine and Lady Gaga is hardly recognizable. Who know that Bradley Cooper could sing?!? I’m not sure if that’s really him playing the guitar too or not but his hot guy points went up! Make sure you have tissue available in case you eyes spring a leak or allergies get in the way.