Former addicts use Whitney Houston's death as an example

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) - Former drug addicts in the Charlotte area are using the death of Whitney Houston to serve as their reminder. 

Mustafaa Mack says he has been clean for 18 years.  He was stunned to hear Houston passed away.  The former drug addict claims he will use this loss as a wake up call to stay drug free.

"Many of days I wanted to go back," Mack said. "But I think of some of our fallen comrades and now another famous individual.  This gives me a little more strength to say Hey, I am not willing to use again."

It is still a mystery as to why Houston died.  Autopsy reports have not been released. Police have said Houston was found in a bathtub unconscious and prescription drugs were found in her room - Xanax was one the medications.

Mack believes no type of drug should have been found.  Houston has gone to rehab three times.

"The only thing that works with this disease," Mack said. "Is total abstinence - just total - no pills, no alcohol, no weed, no pain killers - nothing to subside your feelings."

Long time drug counselor Charles Odell from Dilworth Center for Chemical Dependency agrees.  He says Xanax can be abused and should not be mixed with alcohol.

"They amplify one another," Odell said.  "And that's where people get into trouble.  It's an addictive drug and if somebody has a history of addiction - part of the recovery process is to abstain from mood altering chemicals. You can't get sober if you are loaded."

While Houston's family prepares to say their final goodbye to their loved one, Mack will continue to tell addicts they can overcome drugs of all kinds.

"It's an ongoing battle." Mack said.

If you need help or know of anyone who needs to kick the drug habit they can call the organization Lifeline Foundation at (980) 207-1652.  That service is free.

Or you can call Dilworth Center for Chemical Dependency (DCCD) at (704) 372-6969.  DCCD provides financial assistance for people needing help.

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Former addicts use Whitney Houston's death as an example