Disappeared on a Bender

Do’s and Don’ts of Finding an Addict

It happens more than you think: parents calling in saying “I want to get my son/daughter into treatment, but I haven't seen them in a week.” Sometimes it’s even longer and they live every day with the crushing truth that their kid could be in danger or that it could already be too late and they don’t know yet.

Not knowing where your kid is or whether or not he or she is safe is an extremely trying situation for a parent, even if their child isn't an addict. Knowing what to do and what not to do in this situation is key. The situation is delicate and time is of the essence.

Here are some “Do’s and Don’ts” to keep in mind:

Do Pay Their Cell Phone Bill

This may not apply to everyone, but if you have a loved one who is an addict, keep their cell phone on, at least with basic service. The last thing you want if they go missing is to have no way of calling them. In addition to this, turn on tracking on their phone if you can.

Don’t Bring Up Treatment

This may seem counter-intuitive, but if your loved one is already the type to go off the grid, you don’t want to bring up treatment. This can cause them to disappear if they are unwilling to go for treatment or are nervous about withdrawals—even more so if they haven't talked to you in a while. Try to coax them back to you any way you can—but with caution. There will be a time and place to bring up treatment and to get them willing to go but when they are missing is not the time to do this.

Do File a Missing Persons Report

Whether you like it or not, law enforcement may be your best shot at finding them. Be honest with them and explain what is going on. Let them know if this has happened before and if you know, areas where he or she is likely to hang out. Another key to this is to check in with them if you find the addict.

Don’t Yell at Them 

Alright, so you might say they deserve it, and you are probably right, but chances are this will push them farther away. Many addicts run from altercations and their problems and you do not want to bring up those things if you are trying to find them. The time will come to hash out what they did and for them to apologize and take responsibility. That time will never come if they quit talking to you.

Do Get Professional Help 

There are many organizations and groups that help both find and handle those who are missing and addicted. Narconon does help those in these situations we work with a network of different interventionists and organizations that help locate people. A good place to start may also be the Missing Persons Database at www.findthemissing.org

I hope this article was helpful. For more information on addiction and stories from those who have recovered, follow us on Facebook.

Still not sure where to start? Call in today to talk to an addiction specialist who can work with you one-on-one.

Addiction does not have to be the end of the road. Your loved one can have a life free of drugs and alcohol.