Tweak Essay Example

without him. Whenever Nic faces emotional turmoil, he experiences anxiety attacks marked by breathing difficulties, which he copes with by controlling his breath. He is susceptible to elevated levels of stress and depends on the medications he prescribes himself to ease his troubles.

Nic avoids facing reality by using various coping mechanisms, such as engaging in sexual activities, using drugs, or going for a long walk outdoors. He shows reluctance to confront the true nature of life and often makes excuses for everything, reassuring himself that everything will be fine. In Chapter 20 (page 169), he questions the potential danger when a co-worker invites him to "smoke a bowl". Despite his reservations, Nic convinces himself that it's not significant and everything is alright. His only goal is to feel better than he does when he is sober. This is the moment when he succumbs and relapses by smoking marijuana and getting high.

Nic engages in a behavior that he believes will have positive outcomes. However, he uses it as an escape from reality and doesn't consider the potential consequences of relapsing. He mentally prepares himself for smoking "pot" and takes necessary precautions, but doesn't worry about its harmful effects on his health. Nic sees this behavior as the ideal solution that satisfies his perceived needs. While consuming alcohol or smoking "pot," he consistently reassures himself with the phrase "So far, so good" (Chapter 21 page 178).

He describes his cure and medicine as his total saviors (Page 178). Despite continuing to drink alcohol, he falls back into addiction with both alcohol and cocaine. When Nic finally sees his Dad after a long

time, he reflects, "It's been such a long time, and yet, in a way, it's been no time at all" (Chapter 29 page 255). Although Nic is not completely sober yet, they plan to embark on a book tour together. Nic experiences periods of sobriety and happiness after reuniting with his Dad.

Despite claiming to be sober, he continues to struggle with reality and frequently experiences relapses. Eventually, Nic discovers a psychiatrist who gives him the reassurance he desires - the affirmation that twelve step programs may not be suitable for everyone and acknowledges the value of drug rehab. In Chapter 35, Nic reflects, "I'm getting it over with the best I can" (page 321), as he enters an outpatient treatment center and finally puts his drug and alcohol use behind him.

Throughout the book, the protagonist consistently analyzes situations from a psychological perspective until the very end. In Chapter 37 (page 341), he reflects on his journey and progress in becoming sober and embracing a more fulfilling life, stating that it doesn't seem as bad as before. Nic acknowledges that he now has a firm grasp on reality and is making significant positive changes.

The book has a remarkable ending where the protagonist overcomes numerous challenges and emerges strong, happy, and independent. It is satisfying to witness such a positive resolution after enduring intense struggles. Throughout the novel, the protagonist grapples with emotions and becomes overwhelmed by stressful situations while striving to stay grounded in reality until finding sobriety and contentment in their lifestyle. The captivating writing style of Nic, the author of this book, consistently engrossed me in his intriguing

life story, leaving me eagerly anticipating what would happen next.

The book is highly recommended as it provides a description of the author's addiction and the reasons behind it, enhancing understanding for those unfamiliar with addiction. Although Nic experimented with different things and had various expectations, he should not be considered 'insane'. Rather, he was searching for his purpose in life. As mentioned earlier, he faced mental challenges which he acknowledges in his book. In fact, on Page 345, he even describes these challenges as beautiful.