This is a difficult question, because it addresses divided loyalties. It's difficult to know how to proceed when you're struggling with so many different issues that seem to compete with one another:

1) You care about your brother and his well-being, and you're concerned that your brother's actions will lead to more serious drug use;
2) You recognize the legal issues of possessing and smoking cannabis, and the possible consequences if your brother is caught;
3) You want to do the right thing, even if it angers your brother, because it might save his life; and
4) You respect your parents' judgement and want them to be aware of your brother's actions, so that they can make the right decisions, even if it angers your brother.

It seems that the choice is between (1) exposing his actions to save his life, even though doing so may result in losing his love, and (2) keeping quiet, possibly losing him altogether. There's nothing win-win about that choice.

Since you mention your parents, I'm assuming that your brother and/or you is still a minor.

If both of you are still minors, then you're absolutely correct to address this issue. However, I don't recommend that you handle it on your own.

If you're still a minor, whether or not he's an adult, then seeking guidance from an adult in your community is recommended. Seek an trusted adult who can act as your advocate. This person is a neutral party to whom you can express your concerns without consequence, and who can give you support in addressing the issue. Perhaps you can go to a priest or a minister, if you go to church; or to a school guidance counselor, if you're still in school, or even to a friend's parent. If these are not options, or if you're also an adult, then I recommend contacting your local chapter of Alchoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA). These organizations offer support for families of users and can steer you in the right direction. If these organizations don't have chapters in your area, then call the local community mental-health organization to get further recommendations.

I believe that the worst thing you can do is nothing. Your brother's actions can have legal, health, and emotional consequences that can affect the whole family and possibly others in the community.

My prayers are with you. I'm sorry that you're faced with this difficult dilemma, but I feel confident that you'll find the right solution for you and your family.
Source(s):
Personal perspective


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