I need advice to help my cousin.

[Unregistered]

So recently, my cousin has gotten into a bad place. Her boyfriend had dumped her terribly after he treated her horrible throughout the relationship and introduced her to drugs. He didn't hit her or anything as far as I'm concerned, but he took advantage of her loyalty and trust which is what I think broke her down. He basically disrespected her. She would let him use her car and give him money, but she considers him her first love that it hurts her badly. I know everyone goes through a bad break-up but ger situation is getting out of hand. Her mom has caught her using drugs, and made my cousin promise not to do it anymore but she still does. Her attitude has gotten worse to the point where she's now starting to run away sometimes. She's heartbroken because of her ex and because her dad doesn't even want her to live with him because of her attitude. I suggested for her to come live with me, but my aunt said she doesn't want my cousin's behavior to be passed down to me. I know this is long but I love my cousin and I don't know how to help her. Can I get some advice on ways I could try to help her? I've had many cousins go down these paths and lost them. I don't want it to be too late and I want her to be successful in life and not have it end just because of a boy. Thank you.

[ccsmod4]

Reply: I need advice to help my cousin.

Hello,
Thanks for contacting the National Runaway Safeline.

It wonderful of you to have so much concern for your cousin.
Battling an addiction is never an easy thing for the individual or the people around them.
Good for you for wanting to play a supportive role.

NRS does not have counselors so we do not give advice however we can provide referrals that might fit your needs.
Here are a couple of referrals for alcohol and drug addiction:

Alcohol & Drug Helpline
1-206-722-3700

http://www.adhl.org/

Families Anonymous
1-800-736-9805

http://www.familiesanonymous.org/

SAMHSA
Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
1-877-726-4727

http://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline

We hope that this information will be helpful with getting your cousin some help.
It’s important that she also wants to get help.
You did a great job reaching out tonight.

If you would like to speak more about your situation or just would like to explore more options contact NRS at 1-800-Runaway (786-2929) or www.1800Runaway.org (Live Chat).

Good luck and take care,
NRS