How to stop enabling a drug addicted child?

I remember a father telling me that he was aware his son knew the combination to the safe. And he always put a bundle of uncounted notes into it. His determined hope was that his son would not have to commit crimes in order to get his daily supply of drugs.

I asked what he thought would happen if an alcoholic was given a free daily six-pack. Would he be content with that? Or use it as a starter?

The man didn’t come back to see me. He was not happy to have his own behaviour confronted.

From my perspective, I feel I need to do what I believe is best for both father and son in putting an end to the charade and facing reality.

People can grow out of habits. My fingernails need cutting because I don’t bite them nowadays. But my eating disorder is alive and well and living in Robert, biding its time until I relax my daily vigilance.

I don’t do addictive things. But I’m still a fully paid-up member of the Addicts Club.

My eyes themselves were short-sighted regardless of whether I was wearing my specs.

A motor-cycle despatch rider patient of mine was as short-sighted as I am. He told me he enjoyed driving in and out of traffic without wearing his specs or lenses. He got a buzz from not knowing where the horn blasts were coming from.

I think I disappointed him when I didn’t react. I’ve heard so many stories – and known so many tragedies – I do what I can to help each patient and family. And then I move on to helping the next.

Some want my help. Others don’t.