PARENTS ARE NOT ALONE

We've all heard it. What happens at home, stays at home. Don't air
your dirty linen. Our family business is no one else's business.

And so it's not surprising that when families are faced with crisis
they often batten down the hatches, close the doors, and pretend life
is a bowl of cherries.

That doesn't have to happen when it comes to Freedom Quest's Family
Support Group, a weekly meeting of parents who have children with
substance abuse issues.

Connie [last name not included due to confidentiality issues] is a
families worker with Freedom Quest.

She understands that it is often painful and embarrassing for parents
to come forward and say, "My child has an issue with alcohol or drugs."

"I think that is the biggest thing. People are afraid to let others
know that things are going on," explained Connie.

But that's exactly how healing and resolution begins - with open
conversation with those who have been through the same thing.

"They are not alone. There are many parents going through similar
circumstances."

Sometimes, just knowing one is not alone is enough to stave off
feelings of isolation and reach out for help.

That help, said Connie, can come in many forms. Sometimes it's simply
knowing that you aren't alone, listening to other's tell their tales,
and hearing what remedies worked for them and what didn't.

Other times, she said, it might be a matter of having information
available such as what resources are out there to help recovery along
its way.

Whatever the case, Connie said Freedom Quest's Family Support Group is
a good place to start.

"Information is the biggest resource. We have lots of resources and
information at our fingertips.

If you think Freedom Quest can help you and your family, call them at
304-2676 for more information. All information is extremely
confidential.

Although the program started, Oct. 7, Connie said the program is
ongoing and families can join at any time.