I think my little brother is addicted to roxies and I don't know what to do.

[bigsis354]

My 21 year old brother has had a substance abuse problem since he was 15.  He's smoked weed, done cocaine, meth a few times, acid, and those are the ones I actually know about. Over the past year or so, I've heard he's been doing roxies occassionally.  Last night his exgirlfriend called my parents and said she was getting text from mutual friends saying they were worried about my brother because he was depressed and taking 4 or 5 roxies a day and drinking on top of that.  He's lost a lot of weight and looks like death.  I confronted him about the roxies tonight and he admitted to taking 1 or 2 a few times a week but that was all he said.  I suggested maybe he could see a professional about getting help and he said (of coarse) he doesn't need help.  What am I supposed to do?  Does he need to be in rehab? I don't think he could do outpatient therapy.  He's tried that before for other things and he's never stuck with it.  Please help me if you have any information.  He's my bestfriend and I won't forgive myself if anything happens to him.

[ochooked]

You are a good big sis --- and I can see how much you love your bro.  It is very difficult to get someone to admit they need help.  Seems you have two choices -- one is do nothing and hope he doesn't get in too deep.  The other is more proactive but you will be the 'bad guy' to him --- however, if my sibling were doing this - I would be doing all I could to help him - even if he didn't want my help.   You may be very unpopular but you can talk to his gf and other friends - try to learn where he gets his supply and then do your best to interrupt it - Talk to those who spend time with him and enlist their help -- get everyone who loves this kid to join forces (even the friends who use with him).  He is on a 'slippery slope' downward and will soon be so addicted that unless a miracle happens he will either OD, or end up hurting someone else.  Once he passes that point of no return then no one and nothing can stop him until he hits the bottom --- you can just pray that the bottom is not in the morgue.  So, if you are prepared to be the one who dishes out the 'tough love' then you may save your brother.  Bottom line is though, that unless and until he is ready to get off the 'merry go round' there is only a limited number of things you can do.  All the best.

[cathy5841]

hi bigsis and welcome to the forum.  i commended you for wanting to help your brother.  but, the unfortunate truth unless he wants help, ther is not much you can do.  if he says he donthave a problem he obviously dont need help with it in his eyes.  be very careful not to enable him.  dont let him think you believe he doesnt have a problem.  i suggest you fiind an narc-anon meeting to help you understand addiction and what to do to help and not enable him.  i wish you both the best of luck.