Tragically, a few weeks ago we had a death due to a drug overdose in our town, a “nice” community,” quiet and comfortable, located south of Boston. We did not know the young person; we knew of him, and we know many of his classmates.

A few comments:

Do not make the mistake of thinking that this could not possibly happen in your family. Substance abuse affects people of every stripe, including many “good” people. Compassion, not sanctimony, is what we need.

Substance abuse is an extremely difficult problem. It is not just the abuser; the victims include all his or her friends and family, who may themselves suffer deep, lifelong scars.

If your child seems a bit off, you must consider the possibility of substance abuse; doing so could save your child’s life.