I feel horribly guilty. How do I get over this?

Question

My cousin (The one who is a drug addict) was in a car accident last night. She was drunk and she was killed on impact. She also killed the driver of the other car. I was trying to talk to my dad about everything but every time I did, he couldnt talk. I didn't call CPS on my cousins drug addiction like I know I should have. Now I feel horrible. And on top of this, my cousins little sister is going even farther into drugs. How can I get past this?

Answer 1

talk to the little cousin about it. tell her point blank "this is why your sister died.. you need to stop doing this.. "

you have to be the judge of how you say it though..

Answer 2

it's not your fault, it's their lives, i think you're just being nosy

Answer 3

I think you should tell an adult about your cousin's little sister so that the same thing doesn't happen to her. Maybe you can talk to a psychologist about this. Be patient with your father,it's hard for some people to talk about things like this. good luck!Don't blame yourself, it's your cousin's fault it's not like she didn't know it was dangerous to be on drugs or drink and drive, everyone who went to school knows it's dangerous!I'm really sorry about your cousin.

Answer 4

Well, I think that you should know first that this accident was in no way your fault. Your cousin knew what she was getting herself into and needed to be responsible for her own actions. Things like this happen and they make us stronger in life. But one thing that you NEED to do is tell your father about what your other cousin is up to. You don't want to let it happen to her too.

Answer 5

Though you should've called CPS, do not feel that you are to blame.  After all, remind yourself that you did encourage her to stop.  And when put in a situation like that, it is nearly impossible to think rationally.  I can understand why you didn't call.

Anyways, I think that the best way to help you get over your guilt from this horrible trauma is to talk to a therapist or a grief counselor. In fact, I think that you should have both private sessions (for the guilt), and family sessions with your dad, younger cousin, and yourself.  Don't go with the first counselor you meet:  "shop" around for a bit until you find someone you're truly comfortable  talking to.  Lastly, please beg your younger cousin to stop using, because you would be devastated if she followed in her sister's footsteps.

I'm sorry for your loss, and I wish you luck as you make it through this difficult time.