tell her.  i told mine and got total support.we live three states apart and i will get to see her toward the end of next week.  she will see that i am back to my normal personality, with a lot more wisdom, and humility.
i know i would love my kids through it, but i am blessed that they don't do pills or street drugs.  they are both very responsible and i am very proud of them.  my son will haardly take any kind of pill.  my daaughter is allergic to every antibiotc that is regularly used.  man my mind is fried tonight.  i have to concentrate on spelling, and that is usually my easiest subject.you need someone physically near, if possible. to keep an eye on you in case you need medical help. and if tapering, you need someone besides yourself to hold the pill bag.  best wiishes, and even much betterMay God bless you and keep you may he make his face to  shine upn you and give you peace.have a great nite.and i think i am headed that way right now.

Lucy

PS the reason for the lucyred  ismy name is lucindaa(lucy) and i have red hair

Thank you so much. I guess I just needed to hear this from another mother. I have a great relationship with my mom and I will tell her. Thank you for the encouragement and advice.

Big HUG back

Alex

i would hate to know that my child was going through all of this alone...and that i was not able to be there to hold his hand...wipe his brow...and give him unconditional support and love.

i met a girl recently who was diagnosed with HIV on the same exact day that my son was.   she, like you, was going through this alone for fear of telling her mother.  she was afraid that her mother would judge her for the mistake she had made...one that could possibly take her life years before her time.  

i don't really know your relationship with your mom...but it sounds like it is good since you are wondering whether or not to tell her.   never doubt a mother's love AND understanding.   i strongly urge you to come clean with her.   addiction is a disease...just like HIV...for a lifetime.  you may not need her help and acceptance right now...but there may come a day when she is the only friend you have left in this world.   a mother will stand by your side when everyone else is gone.  i think you will feel better in the long run and i'm sure that after the initial shock is over...that she will probably educate herself about addiction so that she will have the knowledge to know how to help you if needed.

good luck alex...and tell your mom :)

huggs,
kim