By Sulaiman Aruna Sesay

Drug addiction is one of the most challenging issues that parents face today. Parents invest time, energy, and resources to ensure their children grow up to be healthy, happy, and successful adults. When a child becomes involved in drug addiction, parents tend to feel hopeless and defeated. As a result, some parents may give up on their children. It is essential to understand that parents should not lose hope in children that have become drug addicts. In this article, we will discuss the reasons why parents shouldn’t lose hope and how they can support their children through addiction.

Parents should show compassion and understanding. Addiction is a complex issue that stems from various factors, such as genetics, environment, and lifestyle choices. As such, it is essential to understand that addiction is not a choice. It is a disease that requires compassionate and understanding treatment from family and friends. Parents should remain empathetic and understanding towards their children. By acknowledging that addiction is not their child’s fault, parents can help their children feel supported and safe. These underlying addictions may surface from something as insignificant as peer pressure, and in some cases, it could be a result of mental illness.

There should be open communication as well. In a world where addiction is rampant, it is essential to keep communication channels open with a loved one. Many children hide their addiction problems from their parents because they fear how their parents will react. Parents should establish open communication channels that are free of judgment and criticism. By doing so, children feel more comfortable sharing their struggles with their parents, who can help create an environment of understanding and support.

Parents should seek professional help. Parents can take the initiative to seek help from reliable addiction specialists. Such professionals have experience working with individuals who have various addiction problems, which means they know the best treatment options.

Patience and persistence is another key important element parents should take into consideration. Recovery from addiction is a journey that requires patience and persistence. Parents should understand that recovery is a process and that it takes time. It is essential to remain patient and provide unwavering support to children throughout their addiction treatment journey. Even if recovery is a bumpy road, it is vital to remember that relapse is commonplace in addiction recovery, and supportive family members play a crucial role in getting their children back on track. Recently, we saw popular Sierra Leone comedian, Kindo Amani, celebrated his son’s 18th birthday by revealing to the general public that his son was a drug addict. See how courageous he was by given such testimony. Parents should learn from this wonderful act done by the popular comedian.

Drug addiction is a complex issue that requires support from family and friends. Parents should not lose hope in their children when they become drug addicts. With compassion and understanding, open communication, seeking professional help, and patience and persistence, parents can support their children throughout their addiction journey and be there as they emerge victoriously.