Hi Molly

It's hard having to deal with family demons as well as your own. I have a sister too that is addicted to Crystal Meth, and she got my niece hooked on it too. Everyday I try to think of how it can be changed, even though its not up to me to change it. One night I rang a support service for help with the matter, because I had to find my niece on the streets of Perth. I really didnt want to go. It was a scene I just didnt want anything to do with. The support service told me that with Crystal Meth there really isnt a safe way to deal with it, because its one of those drugs that can cause the user to inflict pain on themselves, or you. (I decided to call the police instead of going myself) I've tried to get help, even tried to get them committed for treatment... but the rehab centers kept saying the same thing... they have to help themselves.

I should be saying dont let yourself get dragged down by it, but I know from experience that you can tell yourself that a 1000 times, but it doesnt help. Your related, and the addicts actions are causing an affect on the whole family.

My sister & niece are on their death beds I know. They both look terrible, and I often wonder if they have AIDS as well. I miss my sister from before she became an addict. I have sweet memories of my niece before she became one too. I wish I could have them back again the way they were. But instead I wait for that phone call that says that something bad has happened to them. I wonder how I will feel if I get that phone call, how I will react. I have been mourning them for so long now, I'm not sure how an actual death will feel like. Maybe she died a long time ago. But I know I'm not looking forward to the aftermath of emotions from within the family.

Personally I would recommend ringing one of the help lines for families of addicts. At the least they can tell you what signs to watch out for, and what the drug is doing to her. Its not much I know, but each drug has different effects, and I felt a little more comfort knowing what was going on with her.

If you ever want to just have a chat about your sisters behaviours and how its affecting you, give me a yell. I wont be able to help, but I'm in the same boat.