{{{Laura}}} I'm sorry, it's so hard.
Oliver ,'Conviction (1)'
Spike's Bitches 48: I Say, We Go Out There, and Kick a Little Demon Ass.
[NAFDA] Spike-centric discussion. Lusty, lewd (only occasionally crude), risqué (and frisqué), bawdy (Oh, lawdy!), flirty ('cuz we're purty), raunchy talk inside. Caveat lector.
Laura, I'm sorry. I have no sage advice to offer, but I am always willing to listen. You should have my number, but if you don't, please let me know. Much love to you and Brendon, because I know how personally you're taking this. I hope Son #1 will find a way out that leads to long-term stability and a measure of peace.
Because it sounds a lot like he might have schizoaffective disorder that he is trying to self-medicate for.
I am SO not a doctor, but that's the first thing I thought too, when I read your description, Laura. I know from personal experience that it can be really hard to see the symptoms of mental disorder when a person's using.
Just a Psych Minor here, but I thought the same thing, Laura. I really hope he can find the help he needs. Much strength to you and all 3 of your fellas as you're working through this.
Is there anyone you maybe could ask at rehab, Laura? Again, not a professional, but sure sounds like a distinct enough possibility that it should be looked into.
They released him. Sigh. Of course I have to pick him up. I have discussed with him seeing someone, many times. He absolutely has issues. The problem is convincing him. We have an old friend/customer that is a psychiatrist and she would happily see him and help him. But of course he would have to be willing.
I hope it's not piling on but maybe he does have some mental health issues that are intertwined with the addiction. Maybe at the hospital they can get him evaluated.
That's so hard, Laura. I hope getting him out of Florida helps to at least break up his routine and maybe let him be more open to the idea of professional help.
Maybe there's some way to frame it that might get him into it, Laura? Like, he could do this in order to convince you/the doctors/the police that he's right (whatever that means)? Or, if you do this, it will get X off your case.
Though I defer to anyone with any kind of practical experience.
Sending you lots of love and strength, Laura. I am glad that the possibility of an underlying disorder is on your radar even if you aren't sure yet how to get him to seek help. Maybe your psychiatrist friend has some recs for support groups for you?