Personal Narrative: Alcoholism In High School

Fifth grade was awesome. Naturally, we ruled the school- the top of the food chain… At recess, we didn’t play- we chilled. My best friend, Kalyssa, and I did everything together; homework, future planning -she was going to be a doctor, and I was going to Subway sandwich artist- sandwiches are delicious- clearly, it was a phase. Needless to say, we were inseparable. One day at school, Kalyssa wasn’t there; immediately, I pulled out my trusty flip-phone and asked her where she was… There was no reply, and I didn’t think much of it. The day continued on as usual, until after lunch when our councilor came in. She looked really sad, but determined to say something, “Class, I’m sorry to tell you that Kalyssa’s mom has passed away.” She said it as though it was to be expected, but I knew Kalyssa’s mom. She wasn’t sick or anything like that. So, I rose my hand and asked how she died. The councillor avoided my question by saying that it wasn’t really important and what we needed to do was support Kalyssa and her family in this difficult time. Of course I’d support my best friend, but I didn’t see why it wasn’t

It is well known that people on reservations struggle with alcoholism; in fact, it has even become somewhat of a stereotype. What is little known, however, is that alcohol affects Native Americans more potently than it does to any other race. Subsequently, their adherence to it facilitates addiction. Furthermore, addiction brings a slew of other medical and interpersonal problems, which can often cause a person to become suicidal. Through the opening of more rehabilitation clinics funded dually by the United States government and Indian Health Services (IHS), it is achievable to significantly lower the rate of alcoholism on the reservations. By doing so, the living conditions would improve; and along with it, the suicide