I have a pal who is very special to me who is in incarcerated in the state Of Texas and has been locked up going on nine years he has two more years to go:) And I dont really understand to much bout drug addiction and I want to learn more about it, I know the medical aspects, but not really the emotional ones. And I see some days as a struggle for him and I want to know how I can learn more about this addiction, drugs has been a major factor in his life and I want to some how change that and be there for him. But I dont want to be naive either. Does this make sense?? Is there any good book I can read on this subject?? or should I attend a meeting??

I highly suggest attending a meeting. Part of the training at my work was to attend an AA meeting. It's an eye opening experience and I suggest it to every client who is the family member of an addict. Definitely attend! The words of those who have gone through it will be much more powerful than any book.

thank you mgl78:) I must sound like a nut.

My sister went with me to the open aa meetings so that way she could understand. It really helped her, plus if as special as what he sounds to be there are programs for you to get into. they will also help you out. Al-non for the familys of alocholics and I want to say there also one of the familys of their loved ones being in NA But i can't think of the name. Well that is all i can give on that. But I am a recovering alocholic and addicit of 7.5 years. My anniversay date is NOV 1st. So if can be of any kind of help answer questions or whatever just left know ok. Jeanne

NA is for narcotic addictions (cocaine, heroin, Oxy, ect..) their meetings are found through any hospital in most cities. There are hundreds of "good" books. I'd suggest going to an "open" NA meeting

Thanks Jeanne, November is coming up soon:) I was wondering does it get better year after year or is it harder???

Hi, the name is NarcAnon for family or loved ones of drug addicts. AlaNon is supposedly for family members of alcoholics...but both are basically the same 12-step program. If looking for knowledge and information about drugs in general, you probably won't learn a lot there. I'm not sure if there's an agency where you live...but here in SC we have the State Drug and Alcohol Abuse Commission, which is known as Circle Park. Every Monday night they have Family Drug Education 6-8:pm. It's open to all. They teach everything about drugs, addiction, and recovery...and re-lapse. Once the instructor had actual samples (inside a locked glass case) of crack and coke, ecstasy, meth, marijuana, heroin, and all kinds of pills: oxycontin, vicoden, adderall, xanax, etc. Some of the people had never seen any drugs close up.
Anyway it might be possible that your state has some type of drug education...wouldn't hurt to look in yellow pages.
C Mom

thank you all so much for your help