Coping With Losing A Child To Addiction
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Show Notes
Meet Rich Pagano, a father whose journey through his son’s addiction, recovery, and tragic loss reveals the power of love, resilience, and advocacy.
Rich shares how his son Nick’s struggles with addiction, fueled by anxiety and identity challenges, reshaped their family. Despite heartbreak, Nick found moments of sobriety, embracing recovery principles. Today, Rich continues his legacy through advocacy, recovery coaching, and the Nick Pagano LGBTQIA+ Recovery Scholarship.
Tune in to gain insights on navigating addiction within a family, learn strategies for supporting loved ones, and feel inspired by a story of turning loss into purpose.
Growing Up
Rich Pagano’s childhood was filled with creativity and rhythm, growing up in a loving home with an affinity for music and art. He carried this passion into adulthood, building a career as a musician and producer. The birth of his son, Nick, brought new meaning to his life. “I feared I’d be selfish,” Rich reflects, “but when I saw him, everything changed. My creative energy turned into nurturing.”
First Time Engaging in Behavioral Addiction
Nick’s addiction journey began in his teens. Rich vividly recalls finding weed in Nick’s room at age 14. “He said, ‘I like myself when I smoke weed; it feels like acting without learning the script.’” What started as marijuana quickly escalated to pills and, later, heroin.
Active Addiction
The family’s life turned upside down. Nick’s behavior became erratic, with outbursts and periods of isolation. “We were young and dumb with the whole thing,” Rich admits. Nick’s struggle deepened, creating a ripple effect of pain and helplessness for his family.
Hitting Bottom
Nick’s journey reached a turning point after several stints in treatment. One moment stands out: “He was sitting between my wife and me, nodding off, terrified of what he was feeling,” Rich recounts. It was clear they needed a new approach.
Getting Help
Through multiple treatment programs, Nick began to grasp sobriety’s importance. The family adopted the mantra, “Respond, don’t react.” Rich and his wife became proactive, setting boundaries while providing unwavering support. Nick eventually embraced recovery principles, even planning to become a social worker specializing in LGBTQ+ intake.
What Things Look Life Today
Though Nick’s life ended tragically, his legacy continues through the Nick Pagano LGBTQIA+ Recovery Scholarship. Rich channels his grief into helping others, becoming a certified sober coach and leading impactful initiatives. “I hear Nick’s voice telling me to move forward,” Rich shares. “And that’s what I’ll keep doing.”
FAQs
What causes addiction?
Addiction often stems from a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.
How does addiction impact families?
Addiction can create stress, guilt, and strained relationships within families.
Can people recover from addiction?
Yes, recovery is possible through support, therapy, and personalized treatment plans.
What are common signs of addiction?
Behavioral changes, isolation, and shifts in mood or physical health often indicate addiction.
How can I help a loved one with addiction?
Provide non-judgmental support, set boundaries, and encourage professional help.
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