Inverness mum of former drug addict urges for change around stigma

The mum of a former drug addict is urging for fundamental change on the stigma faced by those living with addiction and their loved ones.

Denise, from Inverness, has a son who recently went through a three year rehab programme after using drugs for around 20 years.

She's delighted about his progress, but feels more work is needed to help those struggling with addiction.

It's as Scotland's latest drug death rates are published.

Last year's were the worst on record and higher than anywhere else in Europe.

"It's hell for the family"

Denise described how she had never had any experience with drugs addicts before her son started using.

She said: "My attitude was ‘they’re from bad areas, etc

"Until it’s on your doorstep, you just don’t know what’s going to happen, but the stigma plays a huge part in stopping people getting help.

"Unless you’re in it you can’t understand it, it’s not self-inflicted at all.

"Nobody in their right mind would live the life of an addict.

"It’s hell for the family and it’s hell for them."

Scotland's drug-death rate 4.9 times than England and Wales in 2020

The National Records of Scotland will today publish the official number of drug-related deaths recorded in Scotland in 2021.

A year ago, a new record was set as 1,339 people died from substance misuse in 2020.

It meant Scotland’s drug-deaths rate was 4.9 times higher than that of England and Wales.

It was also more than four times higher than the next worst European nations – Sweden and Norway.

Denise also explained about her son's plans for further education and how other men who were receiving treatment at the same time are also moving to other jobs and opportunities.

She added: "He finished his three years in December and he’s now going to college. Five young men from River Garden are now leading great lives.

“This is what we want to talk about.

“Rehab isn’t for everybody and I’m under no illusion you can’t change people unless they want to be changed.

“In the end we said, we don’t like the way you live, but when you’re ready to change we’re here.

"He was ready and he’s found recovery, the difference is day and night.

"But so many people don’t get a chance."

Denise helps run a support group at Beechwood House in Inverness, for the loved ones of those living with addiction.

For more information contact Denise on 07983001962.