Last Updated on April 26, 2021 by Morris Green

Drug addiction is a heartbreaking struggle, a devastating blow not only to the physical and mental strength of the victim, but also to the addicted person’s friends and family. While we may do everything we can to help those in trouble, we must face the facts: some people are lost to drug addiction. We are not, however, helpless in this conflict. We can bring about change, and we can move forward. From even the most devastating of outcomes, a message can be spread to those who are in need of guidance, and this is exactly what the Shephard family of Apex, NC decided to do when their son was tragically lost to a drug overdose.

Clay’s William Shephard’s Story

According to WBTV News, Clay William Shephard was only 22 when he died from a drug overdose. It was a sad end to a vibrant man who had so much to offer. The youngest of four, Clay is fondly remembered for his athleticism, intelligence, confidence, friendliness, and positive interactions with others. But beyond it all, there was a deeper struggle, a conflict going on inside. He kept it hidden and to himself – something we can perhaps all relate to. Unfortunately, not all of us can cope through healthy outlets.

Drugs first made their way into Clay’s life in high school – a very susceptible period for anyone to fall into drug addiction and abuse. Though he was finding himself deeper and deeper in trouble with addiction, he was unable to reveal the full extent of his struggles to family and friends. Because of this, he gave others the impression that his problems were under control. Sadly, it was this front which prevented him from receiving the help he truly needed.

Clay he had been through rehab more than once. Each time it seemed as though he had a handle on things, but despite the promise of recovery, his addiction won. His family was devastated by his passing, but they funneled their grief into a way of reaching out to others struggling with addiction.

Clay’s Legacy

Instead of showing anger or placing blame, Clay’s family wrote an obituary that was more than just a memorial. It was aimed at making others aware of the dangers and high availability of drugs in our society.

The Shepard family send a message of love, encouraging anyone under similar circumstances as Clay to seek help. They warn parents of how easily a serious problem can be hidden from plain sight. They deliver an incredibly touching piece; a piece worth reading word for word.

Clay’s obituary has since gone viral, helping to spread their son’s story and raise a wider awareness of the great problem we are facing in today’s society. Hopefully, we can all learn from the Shephard’s story.

Help is Out There

Clay’s story is not meant to discourage. Instead, it is told to give new hope. We can help those in need of substance abuse treatment by remaining positive, staying proactive, and not allowing ourselves to become discouraged. There are so many different ways to help those who are addicted to drugs; we cannot stop when one method does not work.

Every individual is different, and each case is unique. If all drug addictions were the same, then only one solution would exist. It is crucial seek out all available options and stay focused on helping the addicted person, even after the problem seems to be under control.

Where to Go From Here

The most effective kind of recovery programs will conform to meet an individual’s needs. A combination of medicine and therapy will be the most effective in a person’s rehabilitation. From there, a support group will become a valuable resource for them to remain drug free.

Of the several types of therapy models out there, the most successful methods of counseling include support groups, cognitive and behavioral therapy, interpersonal development therapy, skills development therapy, and psycho-educational therapy. As for a support group, one can be found by talking to a doctor, consulting online resources or a phone book for local listings, asking religious or secular community leaders, or checking with local or national groups specializing in addiction recovery.

For some, simply seeing a counselor or joining a support group is enough to kick the habit. For others, a more involved treatment may be needed. In those cases, a residential treatment center could be the answer.

In residential treatment centers, a patient will live on-site for 30 to 90 days, sometimes longer, if needed. The program often involves stress management, counseling, and other specialized treatments. Once treatment is complete, a patient can move to a clean or sober living facility, where they live in a supportive environment full of other clean or sober individuals and begin a new life free from drugs and alcohol.

Getting Help for Substance Abuse

If you have been ordered by a court or are seeking help on your own, contact us or Click Here to look up a local substance abuse counseling office in your area.

Remember, not all drug addiction stories end in tragedy. Allow yours to be a happy ending, and help the Shephard family keep Clay’s memory burning bright by refusing to allow drug addiction another win.