The rising crisis of substance-related deaths in America has left countless families grappling with complex grief and overwhelming emotions. Through the experiences of Leslie Lagos, director of the Sun Will Rise Foundation, we gain valuable insights into the journey of healing and hope after losing a loved one to substance-related causes.
A Personal Journey of Loss and Recovery
Leslie Lagos brings a unique perspective to grief support, having experienced both personal recovery from substance abuse and the loss of her brother, Timmy, to an overdose in 2013. Her brother’s death on Thanksgiving marked a turning point that would lead her to dedicate her life to helping others navigate similar losses.
Before his death, Timmy struggled with substance use following a football injury that led to chronic pain. Despite periods of improvement and family support, he faced ongoing challenges. The circumstances of his death remain complex, with family members holding different perspectives about whether it was intentional or accidental.
“He was this carefree, fun loving, genuinely just this personality that you just were endeared to. And he was funny as all heck,” Lagos recalls of her brother.
Breaking Down Stigma
Deaths related to substance use often carry a heavy stigma that can complicate the grieving process. Families frequently face judgment, blame, and misunderstanding from others who view addiction as a choice rather than a disease. This stigma can create barriers to seeking support and openly discussing loss.
The Sun Will Rise Foundation addresses these challenges through their RIVER approach:
- Relating to others who have experienced similar losses
- Inviting open dialogue
- Validating feelings and experiences
- Empowering individuals in their grief journey
- Reassuring those who are struggling
Support Through Peer Connection
The foundation holds 32 monthly peer grief support groups for adults who have lost someone to substance-related causes. These groups provide a safe space where people can share their experiences without judgment and connect with others who understand their pain.
Lagos emphasizes that grief support comes in many forms. Some people benefit from attending support groups, while others prefer receiving newsletters or watching educational content. The key is finding connections that work for each individual.
Making Meaning Through Service
Lagos has transformed her loss into purpose by helping others find hope and healing. Through the Timothy Patrick Morrissey Memorial Fund and her work with SAD OD (Support After Death by Overdose), she provides resources and support to those navigating similar losses.
The foundation also assists people in recovery with career services and life skills, helping them build stable futures. This comprehensive approach addresses both the immediate needs of grieving families and the broader issues surrounding substance use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I support someone who lost a loved one to substance-related causes?
The most important thing is to listen without judgment and allow them to share memories of their loved one. Avoid offering unsolicited advice or making statements that might suggest blame. Simply being present and acknowledging their loss can provide meaningful support.
Q: What resources are available for families dealing with substance-related grief?
Organizations like the Sun Will Rise Foundation and SAD OD offer peer support groups, online resources, and educational materials. These organizations provide both virtual and in-person support options, making help accessible to those who need it.
Q: How can families cope with different interpretations of a substance-related death?
It’s common for family members to have different views about the circumstances of a substance-related death. The key is to respect each person’s perspective while focusing on supporting one another through grief. Professional counseling or peer support groups can help families navigate these complex dynamics.
Read more by Dr. Gloria Horsley: Kathleen Gilbert: Couples Coping with Child Loss – Open to Hope
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