My Drug Addict Little Sister Needs My Help

Scott,

I’m trying to help my 23-year-old sister get back on her feet after a drug problem that’s cost her her relationships, her apprenticeship, and her confidence. 

She has got about $10,500 owing on a car loan that’s gone to debt collectors, a $1,100 Optus bill also with collectors, another $900 to Repco, and roughly $4,000 in speeding fines and court fees.

She’s not working right now but picks up a bit of cash from odd jobs. I’m hoping that if I help her get through this, she’ll start taking responsibility, rebuild her self-respect, and maybe find her way back into the workforce.

Our parents have moved interstate to distance themselves. I’m 35, run my own business, have a family, and no debt.

Any advice?

Sarah

Hi Sarah,

This isn’t a money problem, it’s a drug problem.

Your sister has an illness, and the symptoms are her debts. The drugs are the cause.

Everything starts with her ongoing recovery.

My advice?

Do not pay off her debts. 

You’re just enabling her behaviour. You may as well buy her drugs!

So what should you do?

Give her the number of the National Debt Helpline 1800 007 007, and ask for an appointment to go and see a financial counsellor in her area. You might even go with her to provide moral support. 

The Financial Counsellor may find that the debts are no longer enforceable (they’re statute barred), or that her personal situation and lack of money is such that her lenders won’t be able to recover anything from her anyway (well, except the court fines, they stick).

Doing this gives your little sister some agency and control over her own life. 

My view?

I don’t think the money she owes is a big issue. It’ll sort itself out eventually. You’re a very important person in her life right now, and just being there for her recovery is the most valuable thing you can do for your little sister. Ultimately the choice is up to her.

Good luck.

Scott