Liza Wiemer asked Lizzy Mason:

Lizzy, your novel is so incredibly powerful. I know many teens who find themselves in situations that lead to binge drinking. It's hard for them to see that they have a problem or to resist, especially with peer pressure. Any advice for them?

Lizzy Mason Thank you so much! It can absolutely be hard. Acceptance is the hardest part. But don’t assume you’re too young or that you’re not an addict because you haven’t hit bottom. If you think you need help, talk to a person you trust, or call SAMHSA’s National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357). The young people’s program of Alcoholics Anonymous was the best resource for me. Search for “young people’s AA meetings" in your area.

Change is hard, and getting sober can mean giving up your friends and starting over, but that’s what the program, Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, is for. The people there are strangers, but they will understand you and they won’t judge you. And they are awesome, believe me.

Getting sober takes a lot of strength and, ideally, support. So if you relapse, don't give up. Take it one day at a time.

flag