Often I see young men and women begging on the side of the freeway near a very affluent neighborhood.
Their signs say things like; will work for food, homeless vet, out of gas, etc.
I question whether to avoid eye contact with these people or to look at them and wonder when they might seek treatment for drug and alcohol addiction.
They look thin, disheveled, desperate.
I have rolled down my window and offered water, food and have mentioned social service agencies which might offer these kids help. Mostly, I refuse to give money because my gut tells me they are " jonesing for a fix." I cannot in good conscience pay for their opiates.
It saddens and concerns me that so many youth have become addicted to heroin, lortab, OxyContin and other drugs.
Drug addiction is treatable however getting a person to recognize when the negative consequences overshadow the benefits of mood altering highs is tough.
I don't have the answer for treating youth with heroin problems but I can serve as a resource to those seeking help.
The compulsive cycle of addiction is prisoner-making. Free yourself or your loved one from this debilitating disease by seeking treatment.
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