Growing up in a small town outside of Bardstown, Kentucky, drugs were just the norm. It was common to see people using marijuana, pills, alcohol, and later in life, methamphetamines. Even my family acted as if nothing was wrong with smoking marijuana and doing pills around us, the children. By the time I turned 14, I was smoking weed, drinking, and using painkillers.
My father would often use them with me, as it was a form of bonding for him. Soon, I learned that I had become physically dependent on painkillers. Addiction can make your body dictate your mind, demonstrating how controlling it can be. One day, my father asked me why I couldn’t just stop, and my response was, “I don’t know why I can’t.” This was a true statement, as I had little knowledge then of addiction becoming a disease and the reasons behind it.
Years into my addiction, as it became more problematic, I asked my father why he didn’t take his own painkillers. He told me that he didn’t want to get addicted. I remembered thinking, “Yet you gave me my first one as a child and continued to give them to me.” There was so much wrong with the dysfunction of my family and childhood, but it was completely normal to all of us.
It took 14 years of addiction, being homeless, always on the run, in and out of jails and psych wards, four suicides in my family, having children, a failed marriage, and many overdoses before the desire to change came. I was in survival mode and made the best of every bad situation, which created a sense of comfort.
Since then, my life has changed, and I want readers to understand the homeless addict better than a stigma or a stereotype. I want them to see that those seeking shelter at places like St. Benedict’s, Daniel Pitino Shelter, or a treatment center all have a journey and work to do for their lives to change. Change is not an overnight process and varies depending on the person, treatment plans, and other barriers created throughout their addiction.
Imagine waking up each day without a roof over your head and battling the intense cravings of addiction. For many, this harrowing reality defines their daily lives. However, hope and transformation are possible. Homelessness and addiction often go hand in hand, each exacerbating the other. The lack of stable housing makes it difficult for individuals to maintain sobriety, while substance use can lead to circumstances that result in homelessness. The cycle can be relentless, marked by feelings of despair, isolation, and the constant fight for survival.
The journey to recovery often begins at rock bottom, triggered by various factors such as health scares, an encounter with law enforcement, or simply the realization that change is necessary. Hitting rock bottom is often the catalyst that pushes individuals to seek help and begin the process of recovery. This can involve reaching out to shelters, addiction treatment centers, or community organizations. Support systems are crucial, providing not only a safe space but also access to medical care, counseling, and addiction treatment programs. These resources offer the first steps toward regaining stability and starting the journey to self-sufficiency.
Recovery is a long and arduous process, often filled with setbacks and challenges. It requires immense dedication and resilience. Individuals work on rebuilding their lives by securing stable housing, finding employment, and reconnecting with family and friends. Each step forward is a victory, no matter how small.
Throughout the journey, there are stories of triumph and success. These stories serve as powerful reminders that change is possible and that a better future awaits. Hearing from those who have successfully transitioned from homelessness and addiction to self-sufficiency can inspire and give hope to others facing similar struggles.
The journey from being a homeless addict to achieving self-sufficiency is fraught with challenges, but it is also filled with hope, resilience, and the possibility of a brighter future. By understanding and supporting those on this path, we can help create a society where everyone can rebuild their lives and thrive.
Compassion and Support: How You Can Help Understanding the struggles of homeless addicts is the first step towards making a positive impact. Here are some ways you can be more compassionate, graceful, and helpful:
- Educate yourself: Learn about the complexities of addiction and homelessness. Understanding the root causes can help you approach the issue with empathy.
- Offer support: If you know someone struggling with addiction or homelessness, offer your support and encouragement. Sometimes, a listening ear can make a significant difference.
- Volunteer: Spend time volunteering at local shelters, food banks, or addiction recovery centers. Your time and effort can provide much-needed support to those in need.
- Advocate: Use your voice to advocate for policies and programs that support the homeless and those battling addiction. Support local organizations that work towards these goals.
- Donate: Consider donating to shelters, recovery programs, or organizations that provide services to the homeless and addicted. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a difference.
- Be Kind: Small acts of kindness can go a long way. Treat those experiencing homelessness or addiction with respect and dignity. A smile, a kind word, or a simple gesture can provide hope and encouragement.
- Practice Tough Love: Sometimes, helping means setting boundaries and holding individuals accountable. Tough love can involve not enabling destructive behaviors while encouraging healthier choices. It’s a delicate balance, but it can be an essential part of the recovery process.
- Set Healthy Boundaries: Establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries is crucial. It allows you to support loved ones without compromising your well-being. Clear boundaries can help create a structured environment that fosters growth and recovery.
- Avoid Enabling: While it’s natural to want to help, enabling can sometimes do more harm than good. Providing resources that fuel addiction or avoid confrontation about harmful behaviors can perpetuate the cycle. It’s important to offer support in ways that encourage positive change and accountability.
By adopting these approaches, you can help create a more compassionate and supportive community for those on the path to recovery and self-sufficiency. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, you can call United Way 211 or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to get resources for addiction recovery. However, hold on because hope and recovery are possible. Owensboro is an amazing community to find and recover in; it changed and saved my life. We have some of the best treatment facilities and most compassionate professionals that make recovery a reality.
Special “Thanks” to everyone in the community who make recovery possible and for the sacrifices you make for others!
Written by
Harry E, Pedigo, MSSW, MHFAI, CENM
Executive Director
St. Benedict’s & Daniel Pitino Shelters
