The ripple effect of opioid use disorder: How families and children are impacted

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — Opioid use disorder has devastated countless lives, but its destructive impact often extends beyond the user, leaving families across the nation grappling with its consequences.

Opioid addiction can have profound impacts on families. Whether it’s parents losing custody of their children or facing the risk of addiction themselves.

Christina Davis, a recovering addict and program manager at the McShin Foundation , knows firsthand the devastating effects of opioid addiction on families. Davis’ parents were both addicts and she grew up under the care of her grandparents. At the age of 15, Davis began using drugs, a path that ultimately led to losing custody her daughter.

“Once I started heroin, my life went on a downward spiral like fast. It was within a matter of years that I had lost everything,” she shared.

It’s a type of situation Allison Dandridge often sees as a Henrico CASA volunteer .

“About 50% of the cases that come in involve some concern about substance abuse in the home,” said Dandridge.

Dandridge emphasized that the presence of a stable, caring adult can significantly influence a child’s ability to recover from these challenging experiences. As a judge appointed advocate in the courtroom and in the community, Dandridge oftentimes plays that role.

“Just showing up again and again, for visits, you know, each week or every other week, following through on the things that we say we’re going to do,” said Dandridge. “Every child is unique. Every story is different. You know, there’s definitely not a one size fits all approach to advocating or supporting them.”

Dandridge said children who go through adverse experiences often face additional hurdles, including neglect and inadequate access to basic needs like food and medical care.

Dandridge highlighted the goal of her work as a CASA is reuniting families. However, providing stable housing and a source of income to provide for their child is crucial in doing so.

Davis is a testament to the possibility of change. She reached a major milestone in her sobriety.

“It makes me want to cry because I couldn’t put together 24 hours much less over three years,” said Davis.

Now working with the McShin Foundation, Davis helps others on their recovery journeys. Reflecting on her past, she found solace in knowing that her newborn son won’t have to worry about his home environment.

“I was young when I had my daughter, and if I would have known better back then, I probably wouldn’t have put myself in the situations that I did,” said Davis. “I feel like I was following in my mom’s footsteps.”

For steps on how to become a CASA advocate, you can find more information here .

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