From Heartbreak to Healing: Clare Keast’s Journey Through Addiction and Loss
There were more people in BC who passed away from substance use between January and May this year than there were from COVID. - Clare Keast
When you think of a mother’s love, it’s often tied to the joy of nurturing and watching her children grow. But what happens when that journey is marked by addiction and loss? Clare Keast, a mother of five, shares her poignant story on this episode of 'Broken Open'. Hosted by Maureen Towns, Clare opens up about the challenges of supporting her children through mental health struggles and addiction, focusing particularly on her son Kevin.
Kevin was a successful social worker who quietly battled addiction, a struggle that ended tragically with his accidental overdose at 36. Clare's story isn't just about loss; it's a call to action for greater awareness and understanding of addiction and its impact on families. She talks candidly about the importance of early intervention, open conversations, and community support in addressing these issues.
Clare also sheds light on the connection between addiction and mental health, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to treatment. Her experience with Kevin’s anxiety and depression illustrates how intertwined these challenges can be. Clare's journey highlights the isolation that families often feel and the vital role of support groups like Moms Stop The Harm. By sharing her story, Clare hopes to break the stigma surrounding addiction and encourage others to seek help.
This episode is a heartfelt reminder that behind every statistic is a family fighting for their loved ones, and that support and understanding can make all the difference.