Kerry Cassells, Linda Maidens and Dawn Blanch each had a family member who was addicted to drugs, and through their friendship, were able to cope and get help.

Now the trio is starting support groups for families and friends who’ve gone through life, or are still experiencing their lives with a drug addict.

“We need to help the families and friends because it’s like a silent, insidious disease. No-one wants to talk about it, they are in denial, they’re too scared about the stigma and the judging that comes with talking,” Kerry said.

The ladies hope to create a safe environment for friends and family to listen and receive relevant information, and to share their stories.

“There will be a chance to meet like-minded people who’ve gone through, or are going through the same things,” she said.

Dawn was certain drugs did not discriminate against colour, age, gender or financial status.

“For the parents who have children who are users, there is someone to talk to. These parents are looking after their children and they have no-one to talk to because they feel ashamed. Where do I go? Who wants to listen to me? What society needs to understand is that it can happen to anyone,” she explained.

“You could be the best parent in the world but it can still happen to you. You think, what have I done wrong? Has someone truly hurt my child? 

“Usually the kids start with marijuana, then it comes to whatever they use is not enough, then the violence comes up when they can’t get onto it, theft comes in because they don’t have money to buy it, they take from their family and their own children. They may say ‘I love my children’ but the sad thing is, the drug is the most important thing,” she said.

“And it hurts, it hurts all of us…”

Linda spoke of a lady who’d told her about her child’s psychotic episodes, and had no idea what was happening to her.

“A lot of parents are usually in denial… But the sooner you face it and find help, the better,” she said.

Dawn said she was speaking to a user a couple of weeks ago, who showed no signs of drug use.

“They have a lovely job and so I asked her why? It comes down to the fact that young adults don’t have the skills to cope with anxiety, depression or deep emotions so they turn to drugs because they are easily accessed.

“The user told me once she took it she didn’t care what went on around her, and her mind was blank. But when they’re coming down they need more, and that’s why many people in our community solicit themselves out, because even though they have a job or money it’s still something extra they need,” she said.

They all agreed there would be no judging during the meetings. “We already have enough judging in the community so we don’t want any more. If you have something negative to say, please stop and shut your mouth, because you’re not helping anyone. These users are human beings and everyone deserves a second chance,” Dawn said.

“We want positive people because if we want to see change we have to change attitudes,” she said.

The meeting will be confidential and open to all friends and families in the community who would like help with their personal situation.

The meetings will be held at 6.30pm in the front lounge of the Post Office Hotel every Monday.