Mother's Journey: Supporting my Son through Substance Use Disorder

👩‍👦As a mother, I witnessed my son's personality change and his isolation as he battled substance use disorder.

💊My son's addiction to opiates started innocently with prescription pills after a dental procedure.

🛡️I felt guilt and responsibility for not recognizing the signs sooner and protecting my son from family members who supplied him with drugs.

💔My son's addiction strained relationships, causing some friends to distance themselves and stigmatize him.

🤝Finding support groups and resources like the Partnership to End Addiction helped me understand substance use disorder and how to better support my son.

Did you feel responsible for your son's substance use disorder?

—At first, I did feel responsible, but I learned that addiction is a complex disease and it wasn't solely my fault.

How did you cope with the challenges of your son's addiction?

—I coped by attending support groups, educating myself about substance use disorder, and learning to listen and support my son without forcing my own path on him.

Is your son currently in recovery?

—Yes, my son is currently in recovery. He is attending meetings, working, going to college, and living a fulfilling life.

Why do you volunteer to coach and talk to high school students about substance use disorder?

—I volunteer to coach and talk to high school students to pay it forward and help others who may be going through similar struggles as my son.

What message do you want to share with others affected by substance use disorder?

—I want others to know that there is hope and support available. It's important to reach out, educate yourself, and find a community that understands and cares.

00:00My name is Monica, a single mom living in Burbank, California, and this is my story.

00:35At 16, my son's personality started changing, and he became distant and isolated.

01:01His addiction to opiates started innocently with prescription pills after a dental procedure.

01:41I felt guilt for not recognizing the signs and protecting my son from family members who supplied him with drugs.

03:27My son's addiction strained relationships, and some friends distanced themselves, stigmatizing him.

04:17I found support and education through organizations like the Partnership to End Addiction.

05:56My son has been through multiple treatment centers, hospitalizations, but he is now in recovery and living a fulfilling life.

07:36I volunteer to coach and talk to high school students to help others and spread awareness about substance use disorder.