A subject that I frequently come across while researching how to help a person using methamphetamine get clean is blame. Friends and family typically blame themselves for their loved one’s addiction when that should not be the case. People can feel like “if I did ______ then they wouldn’t be on meth” or “if I didn’t ______, then they wouldn’t have to turn to drugs.” Blaming oneself for another person’s actions is just not fair to anyone because WE don’t control others decisions. Realizing that an addict has the choice to use and that it’s out of the loved one’s control can be hard to accept, but needs done for both parties to move on.
As I discussed previously, methamphetamine makes users short-tempered or enraged. With this in mind, when a person using meth blames another person for their addiction or use, it is most likely out of anger or to hurt them. If one takes this blame to heart, then the monster called “methamphetamine” is winning and accomplished it’s goal to weaken you. I’ve learned that not me, Blain, Ashley, or ANYONE ELSE is to blame for Chase’s addiction except Chase. It’s crucial to understand that the user needs to be held accountable for their own actions and accept responsibility in order to reach the road to recovery. Addiction may make one vulnerable, but they are still capable of making their own choices. A methamphetamine user has the power to CHOOSE not to blame, to take responsibility, and most importantly, not to use. IF and WHEN they will realize they have this control is the question.
"Addiction Recovery: Blame Is Not Healthy But Accepting Responsibility Is." Promises Addiction Treatment Alcohol Drug Rehab Malibu. Promises Treatment Center, 2014. Web. 01 May 2014. <http://www.promises.com/articles/addiction-recovery/addiction-recovery-accepting-responsibility/>.
"Drug Abuse And Addiction." University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma. COPLAC, 2014. Web. 30 Apr. 2014. <http://usao.edu/student-services/drug-abuse-and-addiction>.