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Expert: Veronica C. Yost - 5/6/2009


Question
I divorced my husband after 18 yrs, 3.5 years ago after I found out he was deeply addicted to crack.  After the divorce he disapeared deep into "crackworld".  My kids and I lost our house, but we were able to recover and are doing okay.  My ex was arrested for dealing crack and is in a residential treatment facility. He has been in there for 3 months and has a job,paying child support and talking to the kids.  He doesnt have a long term plan for after his release and is pushing himself to be "like he was before".  what are his odds of success after release?

Answer
Hi Jen,
 Honestly it take anywhere from a year to a year and a half to really be able to control the desire to use.  After 3 months he is still suffering with that need.  As far as the odds of success, 3% of crack addicts (in the world) ever successfully recover.  It's a horrible addiction and requires support but I certainly wouldn't recommend you let him come back yet.  Allow yourself some time to see how he makes along this path of recovery.  Maybe 3 or more months and if he can hold out that long and not use he will be doing great!  Educate yourself on what recovering addicts will do and think positive.  It's difficult getting over that hump and moving on.  
 Some people are able to go through the program and never look back!  Make sure that he is one of those people.  AND!  For me after all this time...I still have days were I want it.  Over 2 years.

Addiction to Drugs

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Veronica C. Yost

Expertise

I will NOT provide information on how to PASS A DRUG TEST SO DO NOT ASK ME!! I can provide information regarding crack addiction, drug user life style, why they do what they do, visual differences between crack and crystal meth, what effects crack has on the body (long term), what crack looks like, what to expect when someone stops/starts using, effects after drug use has stopped, how long it REALLY takes to recover, what family members can expect of their loved one during drug use and recovery process, why recovering addicts sometimes turn to alcohol or pot, how to talk to your children about this drug before they ever touch it. I won't answer obvious questions about how to make or use crack. I won't describe how to make crack pipes but I will help a parents, guardians or family members identify a pipe, paraphernalia and the drug itself. Since pipes can be very sneaky looking and sometimes without a smell I will answer those questions also.

Experience

I spent many years addicted to drugs and have been clean and sober since 2007. I had a $1000 a day habit and spent over $70,000 in one year on crack. Coming off drugs and alcohol was the most difficult thing I have ever done. I also feel extremely blessed in that it was a drug dealer that actually started me on the road to recovery. It is a daily battle that never goes away. Only 3% of the drug population that quit crack (without rehab) actually stays off the drug. I have been clean for more than 4 years. I believe everyone is different regarding treatment and if possible should consult a physician.

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My life is my experience.

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