On moving to Greece to live, our son went to school in
Athens to finish his education, where we were devastated to find out, he started using drugs. How did we know? He had mood swings, he was always tired, and he lost a lot of weight, his face was very hollow, his eyes were red and under the eyes were black, he started staying out all night, sleeping most of the day, he was a complete changed person.
We found out about KETHEA from a relation here in
Athens , and finally got our son into the program of Strofi. It was extremely difficult and very frustrating for me in the beginning not been able to understand the language fully, I got a lot of support from my husband, also from other parents and the staff in the program, as time went on I found being there improved my language problem a little, and realized what was happening around me, I was not alone.
The program was difficult at first, with all the rules to follow, but as you got into the program you began to realize this was the way and the only way if you want to reach the goal to get you child free from drugs. We had to take a firm stand and go to the meetings were we could discuss our problems and get to the help for our son. This groups I found very therapeutic.
The kids in the program learn a lot too. And not only do they receive schooling but they are given the chance to learn about themselves as individuals, how to look after themselves and others, the meaning of discipline and hard work, as well as getting them involved in a variety of activities showing that life has more to offer. This gives them the grounding to move forward in life and provide them with new opportunities.
We were in the program for six years, in the beginning you think "six years, no way" but it passes before you realize it, and if it means getting your child back, you can do anything if you try, better this then finding your child in the gutter or worse.
My son now graduated from the program, clean, free from drugs. He did his National service, graduated from university and now he is in employment, and enjoying a healthy life.
I am full of praise for this program, without it I cannot imagine what might have happened. So if you have a feeling there is something not quite right with your child, please get in touch with Strofi, even for someone to talk to before it is too late, it is all confidential. Do not be negative, think positive and pick up that telephone today or e-mail, as this is not a problem that will go away easily, but something that needs to be worked through NOW.
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