Loved One in Rehab, Facing Possible Jail Time
Hi everyone, I'm new here. I need support for having a loved one with a drug addiction. My boyfriend and I have been together for just over 2 years now, and he has been struggling with addiction since he was in his early teens (especially heroin and cocaine) - he is 27 now. He was arrested on 3 separate occasions between last February and September, all while doing things to support his drug habit (they were all non-violent offenses). When he was arrested in September, the police lieutenant at the station gave him the choice of entering a rehab program or going to jail. He chose rehab, but he was held in jail for about 5 days, until a bed was available for him somewhere. He has now been away at rehab since September 21st - almost 4 months. On Novemeber 1st, he was discharged from the first rehab when he was blamed for something he didn't do. He was then sent to a different rehab. Last week, he was discharged from the new rehab for testing positive for cocaine. They let him come back a few days later, with some conditions, and he just started the 6-month program over again. I am so thankful they let him come back and that he has another opportunity to get his life straightened out. However, he has a court hearing on Monday for one of his cases. His lawyer said he will have to plead guilty, an the lawyer will be able to get him off without any jail time, but he will be on probation. Since there are already a few incidents that have happened since he's been in rehab, and now he has everything on the line, I am terrified of him messing up again. Especially since he will be on probation, they will put him in jail for a long time if he messes up. He is my best friend and the love of my life, and I am living in fear of him going to jail and me having to spend years and years without him. Thinking about this scares me and makes me sad. How do I deal with the fear and the sadness? People tell me to take it one day at a time, but that is easier said than done. How can I get through this very difficult time? What can I say to him to encourage him not to make another mistake? Any advice is appreciated. Thank you!
@eaglesgirl10 *hugs if you are okay with it* Hi eagles, I really appreciate you opening up to us about you and your partner. I can't even begin to imagine how things are for both of you. I really admire how you've stood by him during these difficult times; that takes immense persistence and strength. Yes, taking it one day at a time is definitely easier said than done. How have you both been coping lately? I don't have the answers to your questions, but being by his side makes a huge difference especially for the future of your relationship. If I were in his shoes, I'd definitely feel motivated and encouraged by your presence.
If you ever need to talk with someone, the listeners are here for you. Addiction Support also has weekly support sessions in the addiction support chatroom including open chats on Wednesdays at 7:30 pm EST. You can find the full schedule here (click on the addiction filter at the bottom of the session). We'd love to hear from you and see how you are doing during this difficult time. You do not have to struggle alone. Best wishes, and I hope things work out for you and your bf.
