How do you react to your crack addict relatives during the holidays?
     It can be lonely for the crack addict during the holidays.  Often times the family don't know how to respond to the addict.  They may be embarrassed or ashamed of him or her and ignore or shun him.  The best approach is to invite the addict to gatherings.  The addict may be withdrawn and antisocial but welcome, meet and greet the addict and welcome him or her into your home. 
     It takes courage for the addict to appear at these events knowing that he stand in judgement of his family/peers.  Don't expect the addict to stay for a long period of time and be okay with that.  Offer a plate to go.  Most addicts don't stay in one place long without drugs so, expect this rush like attitude...
     It is okay to feel uneasy with a crack addict in your home. Nervous some things will disappear and most often this may be true but allow the addict a chance to prove he is trust worthy to a certain point.  When you give people chances they try harder.
     You know they look a mess when you see them and they may be high when they get there but they took some time out to be with you ...just enjoy the moment.  For the crack addict it may be the last holiday....sad to say but true !!!!