Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

How to confront my brother about addiction

My brother has always had addiction problems.  He has a long past of meth.  I once tried to help him quit, but that's another story...he relapsed and continued to do meth for many years and I stayed out of it.  Especially during the time I was quitting my drinking/party lifestyle and getting my degree in another state.  Recently, I have noticed a shift in his behavior and it seems like he is doing heroin or something, he has the nodding off tendencies a lot lately.  I am not sure if he is also using meth still...I went over to his house and there was someone outside waiting for him, the guy asked me if I was getting "brown" which I am pretty sure means heroin?  I haven't spoken to him about it, but he is usually straight forward with me and doesn't hide his life choices from me, but he does from other family members.  It feels like a huge burden, because I feel responsible for helping him with his problem, but also don't want to spill the beans to my family and have everyone freaking out (him and the rest of my family).  I don't really get how my family doesn't pick up on signs and cues that he is doing drugs, but they have been oblivious for years.  I really can't see him again without saying something to him because I am really concerned.  I have read on other forums that people only nod when they are heavily dosing...is this true?  Also, if he is high will he take me seriously about my concerns?
1 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
As you may know, there is NOTHING anyone can do to help the addict. That is 100% up to him. One thing you can do is not protect him and let him feel the consequences. When we addicts have consequences, that's when things change. Yes, it sounds like he is using. And yes, opiates make you nod out. Don't feel crazy. This is NOT in your hands and you are not responsible for him. Please know that above all else. Feel free to let him know you're onto him and feel free to tell your family. Secrets keep everyone sick. What he does w/ that info is out of your hands. I strongly suggest letting him know you will be steering clear of him until he gets help. And keep your word. Again, addicts don't get clean if people help/enable them. I suggest alanon for you and your parent's. It will teach you how to keep sane w/ a using addict in the family.
Helpful - 2
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Addiction: Substance Abuse Community

Top Addiction Answerers
495284 tn?1333894042
City of Dominatrix, MN
Avatar universal
phoenix, AZ
Learn About Top Answerers
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Is treating glaucoma with marijuana all hype, or can hemp actually help?
If you think marijuana has no ill effects on your health, this article from Missouri Medicine may make you think again.
Julia Aharonov, DO, reveals the quickest way to beat drug withdrawal.
Tricks to help you quit for good.
A list of national and international resources and hotlines to help connect you to needed health and medical services.
Herpes sores blister, then burst, scab and heal.