Addiction doesn't just affect YOU, it affects EVERYONE

Of course, addiction haunts many families.  If it doesn't affect yours, consider yourself blessed.  However, there are all sorts of types of addiction and now I"d like to discuss the HEROIN addiction.  Whether or not you've dabbled in any drug whether it be prescription pills, pot, meth, cocaine, crack, the list goes on.....9 times out of 10 you've been affected in some way.  Many say that pot is one of the largest "gateway" drugs.  Well, I disagree and I believe that harder drugs lead to harder drugs.  It all comes down to one's decision.  Based on all of the addiction reality shows seen on tv,  I"m pretty much an expert on what/how each affects the user.  Heroin is becoming as popular as pot was in the 70's.  It's been mentioned time and time again as the "suburban poison" along with bath salts and crack.  Now, when one has a heroin addict in their family, that affects all on a much deeper level.  I"ve always placed heroin and acid in the same horrific category, but nowadays young adults are experimenting HARD with both and don't see the severity of it all.  

I"m deeply saddened to say that my first cousin is going through rehab for heroin addiction.  Not only has he been addicted to heroin, but before was cocaine and painkillers.  There are no words to explain the emotions I feel--sad, angry, shocked, etc.  My cousin was always an A+ student in school, an excellent athlete, and did phenomenally in college.  Only to find that after those carefree college days are over, you're dumped in the real world with depression.  Hey, we all go through that depression and sometimes can't get over it.  However, the last time I saw him he looked pale as a ghost, with injection marks everywhere and eyes that looked dazed out as can be.  

I"m writing to say that addiction is selfish-definitely.  However, it's a very serious sickness that people tend to brush off as "they got what they deserved, stupid idiot."  The user suffers the most, but I think they neglect to realize how much the other family members become affected.  All of those negative psychological side effects never get forgotten.  I just wish and hope that he can truly see the "light at the end of the tunnel" and think of us all.  He's like a brother to me and the fact that I can't visit him at all kills me. 

 If you know someone who is heavily addicted to something, please reach out and don't blame them.  They've just given up and need all the support they can get.  God bless you cousin, for I can't wait to see you shining again~Laura