Addiction comes in as many types and sizes as the people it effects. Addiction is not something to be taken lightly either, no matter the magnitude of the situation. Whether it’s drug addiction, a shopping addiction, or an exercise addiction, any person struggling needs a strong support system. Many schools have on campus counseling centers to help addicts, but most college addicts don’t think they have a problem.

And we know that in college it’s really hard to find the line between a party girl and a girl in trouble.

Here are a few things to keep in mind to help yourself or a loved one in trouble.

1. No one is above addiction. There isn’t any certain kind of person that can fall into the downward spiral. It’s a fine gray line between habitual actions and addictive problems. An occasional drunk cigarette or ritual study-break coffee could turn into a battle of the wills. It can happen to anyone, including you, the straight-A student who is an R.A.

2. Addiction is a serious thing. There is nothing to be ashamed of, especially asking for help. Anyone who’s human knows how difficult it is to admit to something which we personally find shameful. Asking for help is the best way to start off fighting addiction on the right foot.

3. Yes, we will help. If this is something you’re afraid you won’t hear aloud, don’t worry. There are anonymous support systems through both helplines and internet websites. You’re not the only one. There are good people out there, willing to help. Don’t be afraid to reach out. And vice versa too! Make yourself available to talk when you know there’s someone who needs to. Two people fighting addiction will always be stronger than one. Help a friend help themselves.

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A couple months ago, I read the book “Beautiful Boy” by David Sheff, which chronicles the author’s experiences as a father of a drug addict. Because his son, Nic, was known for his writing (even publishing a piece in Newsweek while still in high school!), his father’s publishers were interested in him writing about his own journey. In “Tweak,” Nic chronicles his experience from his point of view.

Having read “Beautiful Boy,” I can say that “Tweak” not only complements “Beautiful Boy,” but also provides an alternative route to the same ending. “Tweak” is aimed at a younger generation. And even though it is basically an addict discussing his horrible experiences with drugs, Sheff never preaches or seems pretentious. He remembers who his audience is; young, hip and liable to experiment.

Nic has wild adventures, rivaling hardcore experiences in books like “A Million Little Pieces” (only, you know, they are real).  From running with gang members in San Francisco, to shacking up with an old classmate in his parents’ summer estate, he’s not kidding around. He doesn’t shy away from the gritty reality of drug abuse, even though he has relapsed several times and doesn’t believe he’s completely over his addiction. It’s interesting because even though he realizes how horrible his addiction is, he admits that he can often not stop. This book portrays the reality and helplessness of addiction wonderfully and really paints addiction as a disease. Read More »