Mom is ddicted to painkillers?

Question

We have talked with her about getting into treatment. She refuses, even though it is clear that her addiction is getting worse. I don't blame her for being addicted, but I definitely don't want to see her continue to steal pills, perhaps eventually stealing money, overdosing and losing her entire life. I am beside myself as to if I should do anything, nothing, or just sit back and let whatever happens, happen. I don't want her to lose her job, but she may not only lose her job, but go to jail based on her addiction. Ideas???

Answer 1

I've got to be honest w/you, I am a recovering addict...I was addicted to Lortab painkillers...very similar to your mom. It has to be one of the WORST addictions going these days!!!
This past January (2007) I went into detox, and rehab...I came out and started an outpatient program...What your mom should do is get on a medication called, "Suboxone".
I got on it, about 3 months ago, and it literally has changed my life...Btw, this medicine is for opiate (painkiller) addiction, to STOP cravings! This could really help your mother break the vicious cycle.

However, first I think you should contact some type of crisis hotline, get family members to have some type of intervention..to get your mom some help...YOU CAN'T do it ALONE!!! HERE IS A HOTLINE # that you should call A.S.A.P., if you'd like to help your mom:
1-800-338-1984
& the site linked to this number is: http://solutions4intervention.com/

I really wish you, and your mom the best!!!!!!

Answer 2

This is a tough position for a minor to be in.
There is little you can do if she isn't willing to help herself. There's a proverb that says: People make their bed and they lie in it, and People can go to Hell in a hand basket. As an adult she is responsible for her own actions. She may need the shock of being arrested to alert her to the danger she is in. Probably the best thing you can do is to join a Al-Anon group. This group specializes in the victims of family members who are addicts and alcoholics.

Answer 3

I can understand, my dad is the same way. Its especially hard when it's your parents. There is no easy answer, but the only thing I can recommend is talking to them about it. And if that doesn't work, you can always call the doctor and tell them. I know that seems drastic, but at the same time they hopefully will keep your call confidential, and they will also find an alternative route to pain killers.

Answer 4

UGH, I don't know, it's hard to help a person who is not committed to helping themselves. You can, and should, be supportive and encouraging, but you can't exactly *make* her take the steps she's not ready to take. Perhaps you can look for a support group either online or in your area, and see what other people in the same situation have to share? Good luck.

P.S. I know that there are certain meds that help suppress opiate cravings; but bottom line is, she herself has to want to put up a fight - as it ain't gonna be easy.

Answer 5

u need to get the whole family involved make mom aware u love her but its time for help n if she don't get it u all r going to place her in a rehab or commit her ...

Answer 6

i think everybodys mom is like this but whatever you do dont call the cops cuz even having scripts thats not yours is a felony

Answer 7

tought love!
leave mom alone, let her get herself to a bottom that only rehab will help her get out of!
she NEEDS to face the consequences Alone!
if you dont let her hit bottom, she will likely die an addict

Answer 8

Major intervention here..... You should talk to a doctor and get recommendations from her/him.

Answer 9

My grandmother had the same problem.

Answer 10

Send her to rehap!