Hi. I read your story and wanted to share a perspective from the currently using addict's point of view.

My mom has tried to house me at various stages during my addiction. I truly appreciate everything she has done for me. Unfortunately, I feel like a disappointment to her because I frequently slip up. Sometimes she gets frustrated and puts me back out on my own, which usually means I end up living on the streets or strangers' houses, and doing whatever I can to make money to just get by.

She and I haven't created that relationship together where I feel comfortable going to her with issues or when I relapse, so when it happens, I lie about it and hope she doesn't find out. When she does, the fall out is worse than if I'd just told her the truth, but I'm afraid to just tell her the truth. She can be volatile and react without thinking when facing a difficult situation.

So my encouragement to you would be, remember that no matter what you do or how closely you watch your son, if he wants to find a way to drink, he will. But also remember that your actions may save his life or keep him from having to do the things I did - and make sure you take care of yourself first, so that you are in a position to take care of him at all.

I'll be thinking about you, and good luck.