Breaking the Cycle
Characters:
JASON, a young man struggling with drug addiction
THERAPIST, a mental health professional who specializes in addiction
Setting: A small, sparsely furnished therapy office.
[The lights come up to reveal JASON sitting on a couch, fidgeting nervously. THERAPIST enters the room and sits in a chair across from him.]
THERAPIST: Hi Jason, thanks for coming in today. How are you feeling?
JASON: [shifts uncomfortably] Not great, honestly. I’ve been using again.
THERAPIST: [nods sympathetically] That’s tough. Can you tell me more about what’s been going on for you lately?
JASON: [hesitates, then starts to open up] It’s just… I don’t know, I feel like I’m stuck in this cycle. Every time I try to quit, I end up going back to it. And I know it’s ruining my life, but I can’t seem to stop.
THERAPIST: [listens attentively] Addiction can be really difficult to overcome. But it’s not impossible. Have you considered seeking out additional support or resources to help you stay sober?
JASON: [sighs] I’ve been to rehab before, but it didn’t really work for me. And I don’t really have anyone else in my life who understands what I’m going through.
THERAPIST: [nods] It can be really isolating to struggle with addiction. But there are other options out there. Have you thought about attending support group meetings or connecting with a sober community?
JASON: [looks skeptical] I don’t know. It’s hard for me to imagine being able to stay sober without drugs. They’ve been such a big part of my life for so long.
THERAPIST: [gently] I understand that it can feel that way. But it’s important to remember that addiction is a disease, and it’s not your fault that you’re struggling with it. There are ways to break the cycle and reclaim your life. But it takes work and commitment.
JASON: [pauses, then looks at THERAPIST with a sense of desperation] Can you help me? I don’t want to keep living like this.
THERAPIST: [smiles warmly] Absolutely. I can help connect you with resources, support you in your recovery journey, and provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your feelings and experiences.
JASON: [smiles tentatively] Thank you. That means a lot.
THERAPIST: [stands up] We’ll work together to break the cycle of addiction and help you build a healthier, happier life for yourself. Are you ready to get started?
JASON: [nods determinedly] Yeah. Let’s do this.
[The lights fade to black as THERAPIST and JASON continue their conversation.]