Addiction Poems about Family

Loving an Addict Poems

When a family member becomes addicted to drugs or alcohol, it affects the whole family unit. No one is sure what to do or how to react. This is a often a time to practice tough love. Family members must be firm with the addict in order not to be guilty of becoming enablers for his or her addiction. When the addict reaches rock bottom, he may realize that it is his responsibility to rebuild his life. Now it is up to him claw his way out of the hole he has dug. His friends and family can either help or hinder his efforts.

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51 Poems About Overcoming Addiction for Families

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1. Heroin's Sister

My brother was in and out of recovery for the past 6 years. He was a wonderful soul, but some demons were too strong for him. He was 8 months clean when he had a terrible week and relapsed. One relapse. But it was laced with fentanyl; he died immediately.

Top 500 Poem 117
- By Kelsey A. Casper
- Published: April 2017 by Family Friend Poems with the permission of the Author.
Poem About Brother’s Struggle With Addiction

I've never touched, tasted, or craved you,
But I know you.

I've watched my hero

I've never touched, tasted, or craved you,
But I know you.

I've watched my hero
Deteriorate in search of you,
Praying for the oblivion that follows,
Jumping through obstacles of deceit,
Torture and heartbreak
For one moment of relief,
One moment of silence,
One moment of peace.

I've never flirted, danced, or played with you,
But I know you.

I've watched my brother
Stalk, hide, and run from you, all at the same time,
Not wanting to find you
But needing to
For one moment of clarity,
One moment to breathe,
One moment to escape.

I've never listened to your promises, whispers, or songs,
But I know you.

I've heard you in his screams,
Haunting his dreams.
He just wanted to be free,
But he was always getting pulled by you.

I've never touched, tasted, or craved you,
But oh,
Do I know you!

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2. My Papa's Waltz

Theodore Roethke is the small boy in this poem. His father died when he was just fifteen. Roethke struggled with mental illness all his life. His first book of poetry, Open House, was published in 1941. His relationship with his father occupied a large part of his writings.
In this poem it is unclear if the memories of his drunk father putting him to bed are happy or sad, abusive or merry, scary or sweet.
- By Theodore Roethke
The whiskey on your breath
Could make a small boy dizzy;
But I hung on like death:
Such waltzing was not easy.

The whiskey on your breath
Could make a small boy dizzy;
But I hung on like death:
Such waltzing was not easy.

We romped until the pans
Slid from the kitchen shelf;
My mother's countenance
Could not unfrown itself.

The hand that held my wrist
Was battered on one knuckle;
At every step you missed
My right ear scraped a buckle.

You beat time on my head
With a palm caked hard by dirt,
Then waltzed me off to bed
Still clinging to your shirt.
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3. Husband And The Battle Of Addiction

Dedicated to my husband who is battling addiction.

Top 500 Poem 214
- By Julie
- Published: August 2009 by Family Friend Poems with the permission of the Author.
Wife On Husband's Addiction

The words that have yet been spoken,
the things I need to say
to voice what's within my heart,
I just can't find a way.

The words that have yet been spoken,
the things I need to say
to voice what's within my heart,
I just can't find a way.

I've fought with my emotions,
I've held them deep inside.
I didn't want to face what for so long
you've tried to hide.

I've been lost within the dark
for so long I've seen no light.
Holding on to the memory
of a time when things were right.

I've looked upon your face
and seen the sadness in your eyes,
the battle of addiction
you no longer can disguise.

I've prayed to find the answers
of what I myself must do.
And I've prayed for the strength to fight
through the hell that I go through.

I've held on for so long,
but I can no longer watch you die.
I cannot fight this for you,
but Lord knows how I've tried.

It's just so hard to watch the ones you love
slowly slip away.
That's why I just blocked it out
and held onto yesterday.

I don't have all the answers
or the power to save your soul.
You're broken, lost and lonely,
and I cannot make you whole.

This fight is yours and yours alone
no matter what I do,
for I cannot save you.
The only one who can is you.
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Your story is so similar, it's eerie. In 2 years, he has fallen so far. A legitimate opioid prescription taken away made him turn to getting pills without a script. Then, since it was too...

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4. The Ecstasy And The Agony

I never even thought about writing a poem until the death of my son. He struggled with his addiction for about 10 years. His mother and I did all we could to avoid this outcome. It was a time of seemingly endless detox and rehab centers, 3am calls, etc. In the end, he lost his battle. Sadly, there was a kind of "inevitability" about it - to the point that perhaps he found the only way to end his struggle. He was 28 at the time of his death.

Top 500 Poem 439
- By RandomPoet
- Published: September 2018 by Family Friend Poems with the permission of the Author.
Death Of My Son From Heroin Overdose

At long last the phone call.
Then the questions.
How?
Why?

At long last the phone call.
Then the questions.
How?
Why?
Then comes the thundering roar -
Of silence in reply.

The first sleepless night;
Memories swarm like bees.
Finally the sun rises
On the first day that you will never see.

When did it all
Take a turn for the worse?
When did your blessings
Become such a curse?

When did the kid with the lemonade stand
Who loved riding his bike as far as he was able
Become the kid with the cigarette pack?
When did "help" turn into "enable"?

At last you discovered
That a rush without equal
Would fulfill all your dreams
And required only a needle.

But the needle is a harsh mistress
And she demands
Absolute faithfulness
To her commands.

Lie, cheat, steal
All this and more.
Just to pay homage
At the foot of her door.

She WILL NOT be "cured."
She WILL NOT "go away."
She WILL haunt you to the grave
For the rest of your days.

And what of the kid
With the lemonade stand?
He made one fatal choice, which
Only later did he understand.

The death of one so young
May seem sad beyond belief.
Yet sadder still the fact
That only death may give relief.

Would you condemn one so young
To this life he knows all too well?
Then God might ask, "What right have YOU
To sentence him to Hell?"

Beyond Death's door may lie
Some realm or land wherein
The miseries of life are lifted
And peace is found within.

But no map of THIS world
Points the way to such a land.
Either such a place does not exist
Or is beyond the ken of Man.

Can you see that kid upon his bike?
The joy upon his face?
Do not begrudge one final rush
As he races to Death's warm embrace.

He rides the wave of that mighty rush,
Misery fading into the past.
This world of woe not his concern
As his heart - slowly beats - its last.
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I am completely taken aback by this poem and your comment. I have a son who just turned 18, and he has been using. His name is also Ethan. My biggest fear is your reality, and my heart goes...

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5. Because He Loves Cocaine

I wrote this because I want him to quit.

Top 500 Poem 493
- By Melissa Scott
- Published: August 2009 by Family Friend Poems with the permission of the Author.
Dad Is An Addict

I can see it in his eyes
when he comes creeping in.
He's been somewhere he promised me
he'd never go again.

I can see it in his eyes
when he comes creeping in.
He's been somewhere he promised me
he'd never go again.
He thinks that I won't know it.
He thinks that I can't tell.
But he forgets how many times
he's put me through this hell.
The deceit is never-ending.
The betrayal. Silly lies.
How can he even sit there
and look me in the eyes?
I've cried so many tears.
I feel all alone.
He's sitting right beside me,
but he's not really home.
This drug has taken over him.
It's eating up his soul.
It's made his heart so ugly.
Black, like a piece of coal.
I try to stand beside him.
I try to give him love.
I beg him to love me more than it,
but I'm not good enough.
This burden is so heavy.
I cannot tell my friends.
I pray to God to help him.
I pray it someday ends.
Please God hear me praying.
Please God help him soon.
We have a little baby
who thinks he hung the moon.
He is just 8 months old
and I think it would be sad,
If a kid as great as him
has to grow up without a dad.
But his daddy is slowly dying.
Killing himself, without a care.
I wish that he could understand
that this just isn't fair.
I have no happiness anymore.
It's killing me as well.
We always fight. We never laugh.
We only scream and yell.
This is our lives he's tearing apart.
It's not a funny game.
It's destroyed our family and killed our love.
Because he loves "Cocaine."
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My dad and mom did meth, and they struggled with marijuana. I lost my dad to that. He let the drugs take over, and now I am sitting in foster care for a 3rd year and getting adopted in the...

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6. Monkey Business

When I met my boyfriend, he was a recovering heroin addict. He relapsed a month into our relationship and didn't get clean for 2 years until I finally left him. At one point I had found him od'ing on my bathroom floor and had to break into my bathroom. He got clean when he realized I would actually leave. We are back together now, and I am trying to help him stay on the right track! I have been writing this poem for a year and a half now as our relationship has continued, and I now feel it's complete.
- By Ashley Depuy
- Published: November 2015 by Family Friend Poems with the permission of the Author.
Poem About My Relationship With An Addict

That monkey on your back,
He's a tricky little guy.
I thought that he was dead and gone.
I thought he said goodbye.

That monkey on your back,
He's a tricky little guy.
I thought that he was dead and gone.
I thought he said goodbye.

That monkey on your back?
Turns out it was just a slumber.
He woke up and came back into your life,
Like the booming clap of thunder!

That monkey on your back,
He's grabbed ahold of you.
His grasp is so insanely strong,
I'm at a loss for what to do...

That monkey on your back,
He's creeping into your mind.
You don't see what you're doing.
You've gone completely blind.

That monkey on your back?
He only cares about one thing.
He'll do anything to get it.
He doesn't care about the sting.

That monkey on your back?
He'll distract you at all costs!
As long as he has what HE wants,
He doesn't care what YOU have lost!

That monkey on your back...
He made you lock the door
So I couldn't get to you,
When you were dying on the floor...

That monkey on your back?
I hope he dies and goes to hell!
I'm scared that if he doesn't,
You'll end up dead or in a cell.

That monkey on your back...
I want him to go away...
But I'm scared that you'll go with him.
I don't want that, STAY!

That monkey on your back,
He gives a false sense of love.
But when you're standing on the ledge,
He'll provide the final shove...

That monkey on your back,
With spoon and needle in hand.
He won't stop until you're dead,
On your last trip to Neverland.

That monkey on your back or me.
One of us has to go!
The ball is in your court. Your choice.
It's time, please let me know.

Please let me know you love me.
That I'm more important than that ape.
Please tell me that you're ready
To get your life back into shape.

Please let me know I'm worth it,
Because my love is much too strong!
I can't lose you to this addiction!
Please! Come back where you belong!

Please let me know you hear me,
That my cries don't go unheard.
I know you're lost. I'll find you!
I'll search endlessly, undeterred!

I'll search if there's a reason,
Even the smallest glimpse of light!
I'll search until I find you,
If you're willing to put up the fight!

This battle will not be easy!
Don't worry! I'm on your side!
There will be wounds and scars and blood and tears,
But in the end you will feel pride!

You'll be proud you won this battle,
Against that monkey on your back!
And next time you'll see him coming,
With his surprise sneak attack.

So you won't let him get you,
Because you will be prepared.
And I'll be there, on your side.
If war he has declared.
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I can relate a lot to this as well. I'm married to an addict. He just got out of prison this month and is already back in jail for meth. He's 40 years old and we have four kids together, and...

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7. Goodbye, Mister Cocaine

You are not God's gift to recovery, recovery is God's gift to you.
- By Ronald Doe
- Published: December 2008 by Family Friend Poems with the permission of the Author.
Poem About Walking Away From Cocaine

Now who's that knocking on my brain?
I hope it's not you, Mister Cocaine.
Because Mr. Cocaine, you and I are through,
And so is the fake fun that I had with you.

Now who's that knocking on my brain?
I hope it's not you, Mister Cocaine.
Because Mr. Cocaine, you and I are through,
And so is the fake fun that I had with you.

Now Mr. Cocaine, how could you dare,
Even have the nerve to come around here?
Because of you, I lost my wife and kids,
And I'll never forgive you for what you did.

For you made me lie, cheat, swindle and steal,
And you convinced me it was no big deal.
To lie to my sister and rip off my brother,
And even steal from my own sweet mother.

You brought me to places I didn't want to be,
You made me see things I didn't want to see.
You made me do things I didn't want to do,
Like leaving my kids just to hang out with you.

You promised you'd be there, but you left me alone,
You didn't even answer when I called on the phone.
You promised me riches, but you then left me poor,
And these are the reasons I don't want you anymore.

So goodbye, Mr. Cocaine and goodbye pain,
Goodbye to the days of acting insane.
Goodbye to the nights we spent together,
Goodbye, Mr. Cocaine and goodbye forever.
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Wow! You really started using a deadly drug at a very young age. I do congratulate you that you have been clean now for four years. That is a humongous accomplishment for someone who used as...

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8. It's Me

My partner's 28-year-old son was found dead on the 7th of June after being missing for 11 days. His body was found in a wooded area and was badly decomposed. The family was not allowed to see him or even have a lock of his hair. This was a drug related death, which has left another family torn, devastated, feeling guilty because they couldn't prevent it. It's just another 'junkie' some may say, but no, it's someone's child, someone's brother, and it could happen to any family. More awareness is needed.
- By Jacqueline A. Grieve
- Published: March 2011 by Family Friend Poems with the permission of the Author.
Poem For Family Mourning When Addiction Leads To Death

Hey, you guys, don't feel guilty,
It was just my time to go.
I can see you're all feeling sad,
I can see the tears still flow.

Hey, you guys, don't feel guilty,
It was just my time to go.
I can see you're all feeling sad,
I can see the tears still flow.

My life's journey ended early,
The path I chose was short.
You all tried your best to change it,
But in the end it was for me to sort.

I know I caused you sadness,
I know I caused you pain,
But I was captured by these demons,
They wouldn't set me free again.

They took away my freedom,
They took away my choice,
And when they got their hooks in,
You could hear it in my voice.

There were times I tried to fight them,
There was a time I nearly won,
But they came back and overpowered me,
I had nowhere left to run.

I haven't really left you guys,
I am closer than you know,
I will be the whisper in the wind,
I will be everywhere you go.

One day you will all forgive me
One day you will understand
And when your time on earth is done
I will be waiting to take your hand.
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This poem touched me and fit my situation. My brother, John, died about a year ago on May 12th from an overdose of Heroin laced with Fentanyl. He was 54 years old and had started on drugs...

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9. My Mother Vs. Meth

My mother has been addicted to meth for as long as I can remember. It has affected my life in so many bad ways. I wrote this and put it into her mailbox as a way to tell her that I will have nothing to do with her anymore.
- By Brittany
- Published: November 2008 by Family Friend Poems with the permission of the Author.
Most days I feel like screaming at the top of my lungs.
I want my mother back; who is this monster you have become?

I really haven't known who you are for quite a while,

Most days I feel like screaming at the top of my lungs.
I want my mother back; who is this monster you have become?

I really haven't known who you are for quite a while,
But I try to act tough, so I force this fake smile.

You love someone else way more than me.
Her name is Crystal Meth, and I don't think she'll ever set you free.

She's had you in her hands for about 10 years,
But all of those years are nothing compared to my fear.

Fear of you lying,
Fear of you dying,
Fear of having so much faith in you and just being left crying.

You wrote me letters from prison and promised the sky.
More than 3 years later and nothing but lies.

Nothing but heartache, pain, and misery...
I GET IT NOW; you chose her over me.

You've told me to my face that it was drugs over me.
Even that wasn't enough to make me see.

Today you will tell me that you are clean.
You give me so much hope, then tomorrow it's the same ole' dope phen.

I'm telling you now that I am through with you.
This comes from my heart and every word of it is true.

I can't promise that I will be around to see,
But when you get tired of that meth, you will see.
All along you had something way better,
And it was your family.

I do thank you so much for one thing.
Thank you for showing me how important a good mother should be
And to never show my children the pain that you showed me.

So, today I officially set myself free
Because I know there's a stronger woman in me.
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Dear Asia Sherie, I love your message and am inspired by your generosity, enduring love, and positivity. As an adult child of a terribly abusive father and stepMonster, as well as a 4+ year...

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10. Crackling Rock

This is about crack through my eyes and the pain it causes, both physical and emotional, the power it has over you and the disgusting, scary after-effect.
- By Del Marie Malliaros
- Published: November 2008 by Family Friend Poems with the permission of the Author.
Poem About Crack Cocaine

It feels so right, what an evil treat.
Hunger pains gnaw yet you cannot eat.
You'll never defeat this hell you've created.
Is it everything you anticipated?

It feels so right, what an evil treat.
Hunger pains gnaw yet you cannot eat.
You'll never defeat this hell you've created.
Is it everything you anticipated?
Your happiness faded, your world now black.
Running endeavor forever, you can never go back.

The devil has you and will devour you whole.
Lifeless and pathetic, you've sold your soul.
You can't get out, you can't escape.
Just one hit is all it takes.
Sketching, crashing, uncontrollable shakes.
Delusions, confusion, your heart now breaks.

The sweet taste you'll always crave.
The addiction you'll fight until your grave.
Random rage you can't explain.
Guilt and sadness, forever pain.

Awake for days without sleep.
Inhale the smoke, smooth and deep.
Inhuman pleasure as you release your breath.
That will soon decease and turn to death.
Your tongue goes numb, such a rush.
Tingling touch, your cheeks feel flushed.

Never enough, you need much more.
Panic paranoia, shut and lock the door.
Absorbed to the core and lost in thought.
Laying on the floor waiting to rot.
Sought for help but nobody cares.
Cold and scared, disgusted stares.

You're beginning to look like the rest of them.
Frantically searching for your friend.
Under the couch? Under the table?
Another statistic, another label.

You greedily need
Another hit.
One after another, you cannot quit.
A bottomless pit of sorrows and lies.
Consuming your mind, you won't be fine.
Blinded by the crackling rock.
Trapped in a room with an unbreakable lock.

You'll depend on it for happiness.
But the bliss you feel doesn't really exist.

Haunting you in your nightmare dreams.
Open your mouth to release silent screams.
Help me please, take it all away.
Pull me back when I go astray.
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Fantastic words and all so true. I've been an addict for 30 years. I'm almost 50 years old, and I can't give up the pipe. It takes all my money, and it's taken my soul. I was a nice person...

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11. Puppet On A String

I wrote this to my husband, hoping it would make him see what his addiction is doing to our family. To this day, he is still battling meth and its strong hold. We are in the midst of his detox, and I pray to God this is the last time my family will have to witness the effects of coming off this drug. I gladly welcome your prayers for my husband's sobriety and lasting recovery. If you would like to read more poems written by me, my book is called "My Heart is an Open Book." Thanks for taking the time to read my poetry.
- By Michelle
- Published: February 2009 by Family Friend Poems with the permission of the Author.
Poem To My Meth Addict Husband

You act like I know nothing about it, but I know enough.
I know what it has done to you, I know what it's done to us.
You're no longer a real person, more like a puppet on a string.
Every single move you make is controlled by methamphetamine.

You act like I know nothing about it, but I know enough.
I know what it has done to you, I know what it's done to us.
You're no longer a real person, more like a puppet on a string.
Every single move you make is controlled by methamphetamine.
I just can't seem to help you, can't break you away.
I've tried to cut the strings so you could walk away.
But without this attachment, your so-called support,
Your body goes limp and collapses to the floor.
I can't lift you up, you fall right back down.
Your body is like dead weight on the ground.
I wish I could pull you to safety so you could be free.
It's so hard to watch you be a puppet on a string.

I'm figuring out that I can't do this anymore.
You have to let me go, I need to walk out the door.
I've been in entrapment, under lock and key
With your love that's pushed me to insanity.
Step aside, you must let me through.
My heart's taken enough abuse.
You have become someone I don't want to know.
There's no other choice; I really have to go.
You can make it okay because you can always pretend
Whatever you want when the strings lift you back up again.

You attempt to burn the past away
While everything you loved melts away.
Your new life has taken what was once my place.
Tomorrow you can't always fix your mistakes.
You have a million reasons, always an excuse.
And most of all it's precious time that you abuse.
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My husband died 4 years ago today - 11/11/17. His death cert. stated Methamphetamine Cardio Myopathy. It also states a secondary reason: Methamphetamine use. The drug he said wouldn’t kill...

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12. Till Meth Do We Part

This is just a glimpse in to the love-hate relationship I have with my addiction to the ever popular Crystal Meth. I love to write and I am a recovering addict, at least for today. But like they say, "TAKE IT ONE DAY AT A TIME."
- By Lowell Aguirre
- Published: December 2008 by Family Friend Poems with the permission of the Author.
I have a love for meth that no one can understand.
And nothing in this world can make me feel the way she can.
Since the first time I met her I knew she was the one.
Never questioning or judging me despite the things I've done.

I have a love for meth that no one can understand.
And nothing in this world can make me feel the way she can.
Since the first time I met her I knew she was the one.
Never questioning or judging me despite the things I've done.
No matter what I'm going through, I know she's always there.
Like two peas in a pod, I think we make the perfect pair.
When I'm with her, I'm invincible, having not the slightest fear.
She fills my head with lies, so my problems seem to disappear.
And sometimes she leaves me lonely, so much I've wished for death.
And fills me with diabolical voices who scream madness in my head.
But like I said before and repeat but once again,
No one understands unless they've been through where I've been.
On the brink of insanity filled with anger, rage, and hate.
On the path of a dead man or another prison inmate.
But be that as it may, either prison life or death,
Nothing will ever break this bond of love for my darling Crystal Meth.
And as she slowly takes my life, I bid farewell goodbye.
But you can bet your bottom dollar on my deathbed I'll be HIGH!
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Thank you for your sharing your words! I am an addict and have struggled with it most of my life. I came from a very privileged home and had every opportunity handed to me, but I was hiding...

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13. One Thing To Say

I am 17 years old. This is obviously written about my mom, who has a horrible drug and alcohol problem. She used to leave me home alone to go gamble for hours; sometimes for days. Whenever she came back, she came back drunk and abusive. I can remember nights where I stayed up and waited for her to come home. Half of me wanted her to come back safely, and half of me wished I'd never see her again. She almost killed me about a month ago. I filed a restraining order, and can't see her anymore.
- By Chaise Taylor
- Published: February 2012 by Family Friend Poems with the permission of the Author.
Teen Daughter's Pain Growing Up With An Addict Mother

There's only one thing I could ever say,
about the way I felt that day.
The day we sat with coloring books,
and kept laughing at our funny looks.

There's only one thing I could ever say,
about the way I felt that day.
The day we sat with coloring books,
and kept laughing at our funny looks.
A memory forever imprinted in my soul,
the only one I'll ever have, since you've lost control.

There's only one thing I could ever say,
about the way I felt that day.
The day you hurt me for the first time,
and made me think breathing was a punishable crime.
A memory I'd give anything to trade;
The day my mother started to fade.

There's only one thing I could ever say,
to describe how I hated every day.
The days I waited up all night,
because I couldn't sleep until you made it home alright.
A memory of mine you never even knew,
because when you arrived, I'd hide and avoid you.

There's only one thing I could ever say,
to express how you made me cry that day.
The screaming and hate I saw in your eyes,
wasn't my mother, but an effect of her highs.
A memory that haunts and refuses to decay.
and you don't even remember it, anyway.

There's nothing I could ever say,
to tell you how I feel today.
The pain in my heart that I'll never get used to,
because it's illegal for me to speak to you.
I love you, though you've never believed it;
through your anger, your hate, and temperamental fits.

There's nothing you could ever say,
to make the pain all go away.
I'll remember you for who you were,
from early memories of jumbled blur.
I miss my mother, and all she could have been,
if she hadn't let alcohol let her life cave in.
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14. Why?

Both my parents were drug addicts all my life. My mom is still fighting heroin addiction. My dad is dead because of addiction, and now my lil sister is starting down the wrong path, and I am desperately trying to stop her. This is how I feel.
- By Nicole
- Published: August 2008 by Family Friend Poems with the permission of the Author.
My Sister Is Starting Drugs

Why do you do this to me again and again?
I am your family, I am your friend,
But it just seems you only love it,
The thing that's turning your life to spit.

Why do you do this to me again and again?
I am your family, I am your friend,
But it just seems you only love it,
The thing that's turning your life to spit.
I try to help you, I keep reaching out.
You just keep saying you don't know what I'm talking about.
The drugs are turning you into what you hated all along.
Just like them, it's the same old song.
We don't have to be like them, don't you see?
The cycle can stop with you and me.
Don't let the drugs tear us apart.
I know you can beat this with all of my heart.
Please let me help, don't push me away.
I know together we can find a way.
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15. An Addict I'm Not

For those who love the addict, but don't share in the addiction with them. We still live the life.
- By Randi Gray
- Published: October 2007 by Family Friend Poems with the permission of the Author.
Poem For Those Who Love An Addict

*An addict I'm not...

so he pushes me away
hoping I won't see it and lead him astray

*An addict I'm not...

so he pushes me away
hoping I won't see it and lead him astray

*An addict I'm not...

but I must still live the life
dealing and coping
praying one day he'll stop

*An addict I'm not...

maybe I feel it more
knowing any moment he could walk out that door

*An addict I'm not...

so I live all alone
sure he's here beside me,
but it's not him that's home

*An addict I'm not...

so I deal with his lies
the deceit and the pain
and all the tear free cries

*An addict I'm not...

thinking I could help
one day my love will be enough,
but it won't, I can tell

*An addict I'm not...

I see the pain in his heart and
the fear that grips his soul
as he grabs for his pipe,
and smokes one more bowl

*An addict I'm not...

if only he could just see
what I see in him
and know he could someday be

*An addict I'm not...

so I watch from afar
as he destroys himself
a little more each day-

Dear God, please help him
each night I'll continue to pray!

*Because an addict I'm not,

but I must watch him be

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16. If You Knew...

Throughout my life, many of my closest family and friends have suffered at the viscous hands of addiction, so I've written many poems relating to it. This is my personal take on it...
- By Nikki Costello
- Published: May 2016 by Family Friend Poems with the permission of the Author.
Addiction Is Deceitful

Welcome, welcome,
step right up.
I'll give you confidence,
I'll bring you luck!

Welcome, welcome,
step right up.
I'll give you confidence,
I'll bring you luck!

I'll be your friend,
A companion for life.
I'll never desert you
Through your times of strife.

Once you have chosen me
You'll never look back.
Soon you'll be hooked
And then I'll really attack!

I'll strip all your dignity,
Morals and pride.
I'll claim your soul;
You'll feel dead inside.

I'm clever, I'm cunning,
I'm patient, I'm quick.
Once I've got a grip on you,
You'll soon become sick.

I'll take your money,
You'll beg, steal and lend.
You'll belong to me now,
And this nightmare won't end.

By the time that you realize
I'm not what I claim,
You'll be in the depths of despair
And this beast won't be tamed.

The feelings of self-loathing
Will become too much to bear,
But you chose to befriend me.
Yes, you put me there.

I'll take you places
You didn't know to be real.
I'll drag you down lower
Than you thought possible to feel.

If you knew this from the beginning,
Would you have stepped onto my ride?
Roll up, roll up,
You must quickly decide

I promised we'd be friends,
Said I'd be loyal and true,
But you didn't even ask my name.
.....I'm ADDICTION, that's who.
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17. Letter To Meth

I am a 33 year old single mom. I have two younger sisters. My dad raised the three of us on his own. My mother has been a drug addict my whole life. I married a man who became a drug addict two years after we said our vows. I fought for him for 6 years before giving up and divorcing him. My current boyfriend is someone I've known since high school and been in love with since I met him. He is now addicted to Meth. I've never used drugs, but they are constantly destroying me and those I love.
- By Amanda Logsdon
- Published: February 2018 by Family Friend Poems with the permission of the Author.
Impact Of Drug Addiction On Loved Ones

You don't know me,
and I promise you never will.
You've taken over my best friend.
His soul you're out to steal.

You don't know me,
and I promise you never will.
You've taken over my best friend.
His soul you're out to steal.

I tried to keep him away from you.
I gave him all my love.
I prayed that I could save him
with help from up above.

Since the day he met you,
he hasn't been the same.
He's confused and without reason.
He's caught up in your game.

You push and pull on his veins,
moving in and out.
You are the nightmare in the needle
he just can't live without.

You lie to him, and he believes you.
He thinks you're harmless and fun.
When he wraps you in his track marked arms,
he's playing with a loaded gun.

I don't know if my love can save him.
You've got a hold so tight,
but I've been through this all before,
and I never leave without a fight.

I believe in a mighty God, I do,
and he will win in the end.
I believe his love and mercy
will one day save my friend.

If he can learn to love himself
and extract you from his mind,
we could move on with our lives
and leave you far behind.

If I had my way right now,
you wouldn't even exist!
Go back to hell where you belong.
I bet you won't be missed.

I hate the pain you've caused my family!
I hate the way you make him feel.
You blind his eyes from the truth.
He's unable to see what's real.

You don't know me, demon.
You'll never know my name.
You don't deserve a second thought.
I'll never play your evil game.

But I know you all too well.
I know exactly who you are.
We've already been to hell and back
with you; it's not that far.

But I'll keep on fighting; God help me.
I'll keep holding on.
I'll keep praying he'll give you up
until one of you are gone.
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18. Addiction

Dedicated to Dustin James. I miss you every day. May you rest in peace and live happier in heaven than you did on earth. I love you always.
- By Christina Carbone
- Published: November 2009 by Family Friend Poems with the permission of the Author.
Me And You Hand In Hand

I don't know what you're going through
I just know the things you say
and the symptoms that occur
are the same each passing day

I don't know what you're going through
I just know the things you say
and the symptoms that occur
are the same each passing day

Like the uncontrollable trembling
and the racing of your heart
the sickness in your stomach
when you feel you're falling apart

The feeling you're on the outside
and you're barely looking in
or the faulting of your memory
of the places you have been

Then there's the constant pounding
and the blurriness in your eyes
the days you just want to lay
curled up in a ball and die

Well, I'm not ready to lose you
so by your side I'll stand
we'll get through this together
me and you, hand in hand.
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19. The Year Of The Dragon 1976

A poem about the perils of drug use written by a mother whose child got entangled in its seductive grip. The child is the dragon, and drugs are referred to as the tiger.
- By Cheryl Chartier
- Published: February 2006 by Family Friend Poems with the permission of the Author.
Beautiful and bright was the Young Dragon.

Capable and caring,
Sensitive but strong,

Beautiful and bright was the Young Dragon.

Capable and caring,
Sensitive but strong,
The life of the Young Dragon
Couldn't go wrong.

Upright and steadfast,
Courageous with might,
Who knew the Dragon
Would get lost in the night.

For the Dragon met Tiger,
Who lured him away,
Into the jungle
Of life's tumultuous way.

Down the path of
Destruction, sorrow and woes,
Down the path of
Seduction, deceit and morose.

The Tiger made promises
Which led Dragon astray,
Away from his mother, siblings and wife,
Away from the people who'd given him life.

Deep into the jungle
Dragon followed Tiger.
Farther off the path of the good life
Deeper on the road of sorrow and strife.

And when the Dragon was
Broken, desolate and alone,
Looking through bars
At the life that he'd known,

Tiger smiled and nodded his head,
For the beautiful Dragon
Was standing alone
Far from his life, his family and home.

But Tiger underestimated
The Spirit of love,
Looking out for Dragon
From high up above.

Spirit opened doors
By providing the keys,
All Dragon had to do
Was reach for these.

Be strong, Young Dragon,
Do what you must,
Before vicious Tiger
Turns you to dust.

Reject all he offers,
Come back to the way.
We're waiting, Dear Dragon,
Please join us today.

Come back from the jungle,
The Tiger and harm.
We're waiting, Dear Dragon,
With wide-open arms.

The path will be twisted,
And hardships abound,
With determination as your companion,
You'll gain the high ground.

Your new life awaits you,
Grab on and demand
That the Tiger who holds you,
Desist and disband.

Shuck off your demons,
Dig deep down inside,
And know that the Spirit
Has nothing but pride.

Pride for the Dragon
Who was led astray,
Because Dragon has the courage
To keep Tiger at bay.

M. A. D.
(mother against drugs)
Cheryl Chartier
Mother's Day
May 9, 2004
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This poem has struck me so very deeply. I am glad to have stumbled upon it. As a young mother of two and a second generation addict, I have many doubts in myself and my success. In front of...

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20. The Shooting Star

My brother's alcohol and drug addiction impacted my family and shattered many relationships. The hell we went through was unbearable; it affected my marriage, children, and my parents' health and well-being. He stole, lied, cheated, and turned into a full-blown addict, known to take anything and everything from anyone. I have not spoken to him for several years and needed to focus on my own family. I was once close to him, but I had to grieve his death to make it less painful for me to move on.
- By B. J. Hollister
- Published: September 2014 by Family Friend Poems with the permission of the Author.
Poem About Effects Of A Sibling's Drug Addiction

The shooting stars we used to see,
Up in the sky, just you and me,
Those are the times I hold so dear,
Laughing, joking, we had no fear.

The shooting stars we used to see,
Up in the sky, just you and me,
Those are the times I hold so dear,
Laughing, joking, we had no fear.

We laughed so hard our sides would ache,
The memories that we would make,
So much to share and full of life,
How could you leave your kids and wife?

And put your family in so much danger,
You wonder why I have such anger?
The evil one, he stole your heart,
And all who loved you from the start

Began to die a little each day,
Until the worst came our way,
It grips, it binds you and won't let go,
You said, "I won't stop, I love it so,"

This person you turned out to be,
Was not the same I used to see,
You beg, steal, cheat, and lie.
Those you hurt all still cry.

You laugh, and say, "This is so fun! I love
to create chaos with everyone!"
You are so sick, my heart it breaks,
I mourned your death and it still aches,

Some would tell me, "Just move on."
They would not listen to me carry on,
Imagine grieving someone still alive.
Do you know what it's like? Do you care inside?

Who could steal from their mother?
Attack their sister? Deceive the other?
His father's fingers bent so far,
They still hurt and left a scar,

To all who loved you, you deceived,
We trusted you, and we believed,
But the evil one I think might be,
The one I thought was you I see.

So, when I see a shooting star,
I'll think of you. But not as you are.
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1 - 20 of 51

Addiction Poems about Family

Loving an Addict Poems

51 Poems About Overcoming Addiction for Families

1. Heroin's Sister

My brother was in and out of recovery for the past 6 years. He was a wonderful soul, but some demons were too strong for him. He was 8 months clean when he had a terrible week and relapsed. One relapse. But it was laced with fentanyl; he died immediately.

2. My Papa's Waltz

3. Husband And The Battle Of Addiction

Dedicated to my husband who is battling addiction.

4. The Ecstasy And The Agony

5. Because He Loves Cocaine

I wrote this because I want him to quit.

6. Monkey Business

7. Goodbye, Mister Cocaine

You are not God's gift to recovery, recovery is God's gift to you.

8. It's Me

9. My Mother Vs. Meth

My mother has been addicted to meth for as long as I can remember. It has affected my life in so many bad ways. I wrote this and put it into her mailbox as a way to tell her that I will have nothing to do with her anymore.

10. Crackling Rock

This is about crack through my eyes and the pain it causes, both physical and emotional, the power it has over you and the disgusting, scary after-effect.

11. Puppet On A String

12. Till Meth Do We Part

This is just a glimpse in to the love-hate relationship I have with my addiction to the ever popular Crystal Meth. I love to write and I am a recovering addict, at least for today. But like they say, "TAKE IT ONE DAY AT A TIME."

13. One Thing To Say

14. Why?

Both my parents were drug addicts all my life. My mom is still fighting heroin addiction. My dad is dead because of addiction, and now my lil sister is starting down the wrong path, and I am desperately trying to stop her. This is how I feel.

15. An Addict I'm Not

For those who love the addict, but don't share in the addiction with them. We still live the life.

16. If You Knew...

Throughout my life, many of my closest family and friends have suffered at the viscous hands of addiction, so I've written many poems relating to it. This is my personal take on it...

17. Letter To Meth

18. Addiction

Dedicated to Dustin James. I miss you every day. May you rest in peace and live happier in heaven than you did on earth. I love you always.

19. The Year Of The Dragon 1976

A poem about the perils of drug use written by a mother whose child got entangled in its seductive grip. The child is the dragon, and drugs are referred to as the tiger.

20. The Shooting Star