To Report or not Report
I feel like I am caught in the middle…I really am not but that’s how I feel. I have a family member who is addicted to prescription drugs and alcohol. There is a young child in the home. This same family member just finished being from under CPS investigation and had to go to rehab. As soon as the case was closed, back to the substances. I understand that there is some depression and/or bipolar but this person is old enough to know how to find a professional for help.
The problem is this person does not know I am aware of what’s going on. Another family member told me. If I directly confront my relative it will be obvious who told me - that would create a mountain of turmoil. On the other hand, I feel like calling the old CPS worker but that might make matters worse. The child is not being mistreated as far as I can tell, it’s just the idea of this person being drunk/high around the child…KNOWING what’s at stake that burns me up!
I’d say pay very close attention for the time being. I wouldn’t call CPS just yet. Try and keep an eye on the child. If s/he is being mistreated in any way or is showing signs of trouble, then I’d make the call for the kid’s sake. That’ so tough to deal with.
Comment by Tasha — October 1, 2009 @ 1:17p