Has anyone lost a child from a drug overdose? Do we ever heal?

I’m so sorry for the tragic loss of your son. This happened to me as well; he was 28. It’s been 12 years. You are very new into your loss and grief and I have to say it was a solid five years for me before I felt some sort of even keel, I suppose you could call it normal. Each passing year was slightly better than the last. This came with lots of prayer, some grief counseling, reading about grief, it just takes a very long time. Reading and listening to scripture and the Gospels, and leaning on my Catholic faith, as well as friends and family helped. You learn who will let you talk it out. 17 months is very new. I believe you will find over time, you learn to live with the grief and there will come a day you don’t cry once. But of course you will cry again even then. This is our cross to bear in this world; let the Lord help you carry that cross. He is with you always.

Hello @syrsis, and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect.

Thank you for reaching out and sharing your experience. Hearing others' stories and finding connection can be incredibly powerful. No matter where someone is in their grief, sometimes a simple “me too” is all they need to hear to know they’re not alone. I'm confident that @jeffroatenberry, @dmadeira1973, @silvia5128, and @SusanEllen66 will appreciate your message of encouragement and understanding.

@syrsis, was the loss of your son related to drugs/alcohol?

My oldest child started using drugs, and committing robberies at age 11.
We found out from the police dept the he was the ring leader. Over the last 44 years, he has caused me, and himself so much stress. I now have major health issues caused by stress. Currently, he is in prison, again at the age of 55. But, he is alive only by the grace of God.

His sister, my beautiful daughter died in 2018 of an overdose of pain pills. She was 45 and the mom of my 3 grandchildren. She was never a problem growing up. Only during the last 8 years of her life did she start using pain meds, and stealing from everyone. She refused treatment…

My youngest son, is a business professional. He is a joy.

Now I am as mentally strong as I can possibility be. I have been diagnosed with 4 neurological diseases over the last 4 years, including dementia.

I do have a close relationship with Jesus Christ, and He helps me every step I take.
I’m almost 76, and planning to move into assisted living in about a year.

Blessings to you all.

I have been there, lost my son in 2017, while I can say it gets easier as the years pass, the heartbreak never goes away. I still wonder what his life would have been like. I lost my daughter too, as she blames me for him. The first year, I cried a lot and had a hard time getting through the day without being upset, wondering if I could have done more to help him. Now I have to remind myself not to go down that rabbit hole of should have, could have, would have. The holidays are tuff without them, but it has gotten easier as the years go by. While I have healed, I still miss them. I can only hope that my daughter will see one day that I did everything I knew how to do to help him. I don't cry anymore, now I remember the good times, fun, and ridiculous things he got into as a little kid. I'm so sorry that you have to go through. I can tell you it gets easier as time passes.

Hello @ @fundsrlow2. Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect.

To everyone who has shared their experience in this discussion and has lost a child—there are truly no words to adequately express how sorry I am for the pain you’ve endured. As a mother of two young children (ages 6 and 3), this is my greatest fear and worst nightmare.

The fact that you are speaking out, sharing your stories, and finding a way to move through each day is both incredibly brave and deeply inspiring. Please continue to support one another, and don’t hesitate to reach out when you need support yourself. Remember the good moments, the joy, and the love—those memories are powerful and lasting.

@fundsrlow2- You mentioned remembering the good times, fun, and ridiculous things he got into as a child, what are other ways you choose to celebrate your son?

stay strong my friend.

I’ve lost two. My only boys
44/28
Second passed two weeks ago
It doesn’t go away
But tolerable

I’ve lost two sons to the F word. It’s the worst crisis ever
It doesn’t ever ever go away!
My second son was only this last June
I have no husband so I can’t say about marriage. I don’t understand why that happens
I’m so sorry for you
I visited with a medium both times. It has helped

I'm sorry for your loss...I've lost several friends and family to alcohol and drugs...hopefully they didn't die in vain...we can heal..and we can help and support others...attend N A narcotics anonymous there's likely a meeting close to you find out and go....i promise you that it works...it will help you with your sorrow and loss

I am so very sorry for your loss. I have lost my husband of 40+yrs. and my oldest son. Doesn't get any easier sorry to say. I am sending prayers and hugs. Here if need chat