SUPPORT FOR PARENTS OF DRUG TAKERS

Dear Editor,

The following is a brief explanation of my reasons for wanting to establish
a parent support network for drug abusers in the Midland area. My journey in
the drug area has been both professional and personal. I work in the
chronic drug area in Northbridge as a welfare support worker.

I always believed the drug problems would not personally affect me.

I was shocked to think that, with all my knowledge. I would not recognise
the signs of drug abuse in my own child. Research by the WA Drug Strategy
Office shows many parents from all socio-economic levels, different cultural
backgrounds and parenting styles have found themselves in the same position.

We were left asking ourselves where we went wrong and what we could do.

The research also showed most affected parents just wanted someone to listen
to and not to judge them.

This is why a group of people are trying to establish a parent support
network in this area.

We want to break down the isolation and shame parents feel when they
discover their child is using drugs.

The group is not about therapy, counselling or teaching people to be better
parents.

It is about listening to parents' stories.

I can be contacted on 9250 3261.

Steve Howlett,
Midland