When substance use disorder disrupts your field of dreams

By Stephen C. Schultz

Over the years I have had too many conversations with families about substance abuse. I have sat with parents brought to tears because addiction has ruined relationships and tarnished trust. I have discussed substance use disorder with teens that maintain a center of the universe attitude and are convinced they can use drugs now, only to recover later in life and be fine. I have witnessed the slow death that comes about because of a cirrhotic liver and the spur of the moment death brought about by substance induced suicide. I have compassionately changed the bed sheets of a middle aged man in the throes of a medical detox who was trying desperately to maintain some semblance of dignity.

In each of these cases, families and parents never once thought to themselves;

“I sure hope that someone in our family struggles with addiction!”

In fact, most families romanticize the Field of Dreams scenario. Unfortunately, addiction is no respecter of persons, social status or financial achievements. For those families that find themselves struggling with the demons of addiction, I have created a list of posts from my blog that can be used as a resource. I hope you find this helpful. Please don’t hesitate to leave a comment or share with others. It’s only through open and honest dialogue that healing can begin and the pain of addiction can be soothed.

Why do bad things happen to good people?

Teens and Alcohol – A Relationship on the Rocks

Alcohol and Teens...it's all about cells!

Teen Party At The Beach

Touching Thank You From a Grateful Father

Should a teen ever leave his date at a party?

What's the best way to deal with "Failure To Launch"?

Adversity - Can We Avoid It?

The definition of insanity…

Truth or Consequences - A story of heroin addiction

Comments

The Young Boy and the Rattlesnake

By Stephen C. Schultz (Editors note: This is a story used in a Wilderness Treatment Program. Many come to this program having struggled with depression, anxiety and substance use.) Many years ago there was a young Native American who lived in the very land you are residing in. He decided to seek wisdom by journeying to the top of Indian Peak. As he approached the base of the mountain he came across a rattlesnake that slithered beside him. The snake coiled as if to strike and the young boy moved back quickly in fear of being struck by the snake’s deadly venom. At that instant the snake spoke to the boy saying, “Don’t be afraid of me, I mean you no harm. I come to you to ask a favor. I see that you are about to traverse to the top of Indian Peak and was hoping that you may be willing to place me in your satchel so that I don’t have to make the long journey alone.” The young boy surprised by the snake’s request quickly responded by turning down the offer, stating, ...

Holiday Insight: Finding Grace in Imperfect Relationships

By Stephen C. Schultz As we once again head into the Holiday Season, it is important to be aware of the impact of the holidays on those we love and care about. The holidays are often described as a time of joy, family, and celebration. But for many, they bring a quieter reality - one marked by stress, loneliness, or the resurfacing of painful memories. For some people, the holidays represent connection and renewal. For others, they stir up what has been lost, what never was, or what once hurt too much to recall. The very things that make the season feel special - music, smells, family gatherings - can also awaken deep emotional undercurrents, especially for those with a history of trauma. Why the Holidays Can Trigger Past Trauma Many people who have experienced trauma - especially early childhood or relational trauma - notice that this season brings unexpected emotional intensity. Science now confirms what survivors have long known: certain times of year can activate implicit ...

Navigating the Labyrinth of Care: Why Oxbow Academy Fights for Every Student

By Stephen C. Schultz Oxbow Academy recognizes that the students who enter its doors—whether from across the country or around the world—often represent unique and highly complex clinical cases. Because of the Academy’s specialized treatment focus, families, state agencies, school districts and managed care organizations frequently go beyond standard protocols to ensure students struggling with Problematic Sexual Behavior (PSB) can access the care they need. Many of these students fall outside traditional treatment norms, which is why a large number are supported through single-case agreements with Oxbow. The families we partner with often face overwhelming circumstances, with students at significant risk of ongoing harm—both to themselves and others. For this reason, Oxbow Academy remains unwavering in its belief that these students are worth fighting for. The Invaluable Impact of the Evaluation Process Even a short-term stay (typically 60–90 days) at Oxbow Academy for evaluation c...

The Interpreted Rock

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