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See all MNHQ comments on this thread

Original poster

Addiction / substance dependency topic?

53 replies

thequickbrownfox · 15/11/2015 07:44

I wrote to MNHQ about having an addiction topic as there's a codeine addiction thread at the moment where lots of posters are talking about dependency on OTC drugs.

It seems strange that in the Health section there are topics for almost everything else - eating disorders, alcohol dependency. Drug addiction is something that affects huge numbers of us.

They've said they might introduce one based on how many MNers agree.

So if you do, post below!

OP posts:
Lightbulbon · 15/11/2015 07:59

Yes I think age metal addiction one would be a good idea. It could cover lots of addictions like alcohol, drugs, gambling etc.

Original poster
thequickbrownfox · 15/11/2015 20:51

Quick bump for the evening lot.

OP posts:
PlentyOfPubeGardens · 15/11/2015 21:38

I think this is a good idea. It's something that was talked about when we got the stop smoking topic.

Original poster
thequickbrownfox · 15/11/2015 22:01

There's a codeine addiction thread active at the moment, and dozens of posters have commented on it, saying they also have a problem with it.

I was in a relationship with an addict a few years ago and would have found a specific topic useful (at the time I posted in relationships).

OP posts:
wonkylampshade · 20/03/2016 16:58

Resurrecting this thread.

There must be loads of us who have been or are currently affected by addiction - personal, or that of a partner, parent or child; drug, alcohol, gambling, whatever.

Doesn't it make sense to have a topic which would serve as a really useful resource and save people needing help and advice having to post in AIBU, relationships or chat?

There are lots of threads by people desperately affected by addiction but they are currently hiding all over the place in different topics.

MNHQ say they will gauge interest here, so if anyone agrees please say so.

Meercat2 · 20/03/2016 17:01

Yes I think it would be extremely helpful

hownottofuckup · 20/03/2016 17:03

I also think it would be a good idea

wonkylampshade · 20/03/2016 20:44

Bumping this for anyone on tonight.

ClopySow · 20/03/2016 22:37

Yes from me

cocochanel21 · 20/03/2016 22:54

Yes from me, when my Dd1 was in the hell of drug addiction I would have loved somewhere to post and talk about it.

Creak · 20/03/2016 22:57

Another yes vote from me, please!

tribpot · 20/03/2016 22:58

Would this replace the existing Alcohol Support topic or be in addition to? I would like to see a single topic for preference, but posters may be put off by the word addiction.

Procrastinationcity · 20/03/2016 22:59

Another yes vote.

wonkylampshade · 20/03/2016 23:16

Maybe the alcohol dependency topic could be changed to "drug and alcohol dependency". But then it doesn't cover things like gambling...whereas "addiction" does.

I suppose addiction is a definitive behaviour, no matter what the dependency is, and that's what those of us who have supported/lived with addicts have struggled with and posted to ask for help and advice on.

A topic could be an invaluable resource for many people experiencing the impact of addictions on family life, and it seems a missed opportunity not to include a dedicated space for support in a site of this size and kind.

Iflyaway · 20/03/2016 23:35

I'm surprised there's not a topic on this. Addiction. Of all kinds.

Maybe cos it's not a naice middle-class problem

It would help the countless people suffering in silence, whether on a personal level, relationship-level, family-dynamics, etc.

Come on, Mumsnet HQ. It's 2016!

wonkylampshade · 21/03/2016 08:10

My point exactly! AIBU is not the place for vulnerable posters to be seeking support for a massive issue like this.

It might not be a naice problem but it's one which pervades society in every level, and ruins lives across the social spectrum.

Roygrace · 21/03/2016 08:11

Agreed

TelephoneIgnoringMachine · 21/03/2016 08:52

Yes definitely.

YoJesse · 21/03/2016 08:58

A big yes please. There are some wonderful helpful posters who really know what they are talking about and have already helped me so much but aibu is Not the place to access it.

wonkylampshade · 21/03/2016 10:47

Bumping again. While I agree there are loads of erroneous topics, I think this one is as important as the very important ones which allow people with a very specific issue a defined space to talk about it and seek support.

legotits · 21/03/2016 10:49

Aye from me too.

wonkylampshade · 21/03/2016 10:53

MNHQ, is this enough in terms of support or do you need more agreement from other posters?

stabbybitch · 21/03/2016 10:58

Yes from me too, as a 'all addictions' topic and in addition to the alcohol support topic.

legotits · 21/03/2016 11:22

Make it a spacious one please, I've replaced my codeine addiction with two old ones I'd quit and two nice shiny new addictions Blush

wonkylampshade · 21/03/2016 11:29

You're one of a legion legotits! It's crazy there's no proper "place" for you to post.

My xp had a crucifying addiction to pot, then codeine and finally heroin.

Nice middle class family, privately educated, expert at continuing on with his life and bluffing everyone.... Within our relationship it was hell though. It honestly nearly broke me in the end. I thought I was going mad at times.

OTC addictions are widespread.