Sunday, February 3rd, 2008
“I promise” is the mantra of alcoholics and drug addicts. Families and loved ones hear this often and with conviction. You want to believe and you hope it will be the end of the problem. But time and time again, they lie and they always have a logical rational reason for the lie. Then there is the high drama. The stories are so involved and intricate that it seems impossible to have been made up. Unfortunately, you know its not the truth, but you find it hard to believe that you have been fooled again. Then there is the shame and guilt that you have to deal with and bear. And what about the threats they foist on you, including violence and suicide as a last resort. Is it any wonder that parents and loved ones give in, like Guy Lafleur. Is he a victim,yes. Is he reasonable for being duped, yes. Its time to help families and loved ones to learn how to stand up to the abuse and insist on treatment. Tough love is difficult but necessary to stop the vicious cycle of manipulation and capitulation. Reach out, help is there.
Gerald Sidel
Director Addington Addiction Treatment Centre