I don't believe it is their business. You are also violating the privacy of your son by divulging that information. I suggest keeping it between yourselves and the people providing him care.

If you absolutely feel the need to talk about it, then consult a counselor who is required to not disclose that information according to HIPAA laws. You are doing him a disservice by disclosing that information unless you believe that one of those "close friends" is providing him the opiates and you warning them to stay away from your son.

And think of it like a medical record because he is sick. He has a right to all the privacy you can afford him. There is a lot of guilt and shame surrounding substance abuse.

We used to answer the phones at the treatment center: I can not confirm or deny the presence or non presence of the person you are requesting but if you leave your name and number, if they should be here they can decide to contact you.

All these things are anonymous for a reason. Protect his privacy until he starts his recovery a little. I find alcoholics and addicts to be extremely sensitive to exposure until they start to get well. Then the honesty is so refreshingly blunt it can be surprising.

It's a family disease. Love to you.

That they are more aware of the problem than you think...

and treat this as a medical condition and your son has the right to privacy. Still, I know you and your husband also need support. Most rehabs have family days and support and hopefully counselors can help you with these questions.

...and so he's in rehab for awhile."