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Surviving With Support

Posted By smallkate

"Surviving With Support"

About: Parent Support Link

(as a parent/guardian),

In desperation I was calling helplines. PSL was the only one that picked up. In that moment it was literally a lifeline. A connection with another who listened and understood. Their patience, kindness and understanding came from a place of real experience. I felt I didn’t need to explain my situation, my terror, the abuse… they just got it. And it came without judgement. It’s painful and dark and difficult but somehow just being heard has given me the strength to keep going, keep loving.

Through continuous counselling and group meetings I listen to others, who’ve shared their courageous stories so similar to mine. And this shared experience is teaching me so much more; about substance (ab)use, addiction, loss and survival.

I don’t know what I would do without PSL. It’s a cliche, but it’s true: I’d be lost without them.

Do you have a similar story to tell? Tell your story & make a difference ››

Responses

Response from Rhona Hawkins, Service Manager, Parent Support Link, Inclusion 2 days ago
Rhona Hawkins
Service Manager, Parent Support Link,
Inclusion

Submitted on 07/07/2025 at 14:32
Published on Care Opinion at 14:32

Thank you so much for sharing this so openly and vulnerably. It’s clear how much reaching PSL meant to you in such a desperate time, and it’s incredibly moving to hear how their kindness, patience, and genuine understanding made such a profound difference. Sometimes, just being truly heard, without judgment, without having to explain every detail, is the thing that can carry us through the darkest moments.

Your continued courage to seek support, to listen, and to grow alongside others is truly inspiring. The way you describe the power of shared experience is beautiful, it’s in those connections where real healing often begins.

It’s not a cliché at all to say you’d be lost without the support, it’s a testament to the life-saving role they’ve played and continue to play in your journey. Please know your words will likely resonate deeply with others who may be struggling to reach out, and your story might just be the gentle encouragement they need to do the same.

You are not alone. Keep going, keep loving. You are doing incredibly well.

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