BREAKING ADDICTIONS

Let's admit it -- everyone has a weakness. It could be a cup of coffee in
the morning or that piece of chocolate that must melt in your mouth.

But what if that weakness took control of your life? Could you overcome it
or would you become an addict?

It's National Addictions Awareness Week, a time to consider beating that
craving for a smoke or helping someone overcome their lock on drugs.

To understand an addict's mind, think of what you crave the most and how
terrible it would be if these thoughts occupied your life.

Addictions harm not only those who severely feel they need a drink or need
to put more than one coin in a slot machine. They impact family, friends
and employers.

Alcoholism is heavily connected to family violence. Cigarettes cause
cancer. Gambling places families in bankruptcy. Drugs lead to theft and
higher crime rates in communities.

The Edson Leader has focused on only one type of addiction in this issue of
the paper -- crystal meth. Four Edsonites were willing to tell their
stories to students and the public, hoping to prevent more addicts in the
future.

They have asked to remain anonymous because they now understand how this
drug wreaked havoc on their lives and others.

Readers should make a point to follow the six-part series of a meth addict
that begins in this issue. The Edson and District Drug Action Coalition
(EDDAC) made great efforts to find a local resident, who is suffering the
consequences of his actions behind bars, to tell his story honestly and
frankly. EDDAC also recruited a writer who was willing to piece together
the details and make the articles interesting for our readers.

Don't forget to read a poem on the letters page (Page A7) that drives home
the point on how meth shatters lives.

As much as crystal meth has taken hold of this community, Edsonites
shouldn't forget that there are endless types of addictions.

Take notice of those around you who appear to go beyond that simple
craving. As difficult as it may be, ask them to seek help or contact the
Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission (AADAC) in the Edson Provincial
Building for advice and resources.

If you realize you are an addict, consider how this obsession is affecting
yourself and others. AADAC is willing to provide confidential counselling
to help Edsonites beat their addictions.

For some, quitting smoking or drinking is simple. For others, it's a
struggle that they wrestle with for a majority of their lives. Let's break
the cycle of addiction.