Pubdate: Tue, 11 Dec 2007 Source: Loyola Greyhound, The (US MD: Edu) Copyright: 2007 Loyola Greyhound Contact: http://www.loyolagreyhound.com/home/lettertotheeditor/ Website: http://www.loyolagreyhound.com Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/4615 RESPONSIBILITY AND COMMUNITY Despite the controversy surrounding The Greyhound's first installment of its series, "A Costly Habit" on cocaine use at Loyola, we are glad to see the story raised reactions both positive and negative. As the sole newspaper on campus, we must take into account our effect on the college community, and of course, how the Loyola student community views, itself, as a result. Either way, any sort of discussion that takes place must examine both the positive attributes of Loyola's community, of which there are many, and the negative in order to educate ourselves about campus realities. Indeed, the majority of Loyola students lead healthy lifestyles, however, students must not ignore the destructive behavior of their peers, even if it is uncommon. While marijuana, cocaine and other drugs may seem like mere recreational forays, the long-term effects of addiction can be utterly crippling. And as demonstrated by some of the students we have spoken with, addiction can overtake a person more quickly than he or she imagined. Moreover, the effort it takes to get out from a drug's influence can be astounding, and without help, nearly impossible. Whatever the stigma, if you see a friend slipping into addiction - help them. Some students exhibit a sense that interfering in such situations is neither their place nor their responsibility. Even more, some might fear that their actions will get friends or roommates into serious trouble. The Greyhound wants to emphasize that students are responsible for each other, and there are ways to help somebody without getting them into trouble. In the end, more harm will be done if they are caught, or continue to use a drug until serious medical problems result. Avenues of help include the Counseling Center and the ADESS office, among others. These programs exist to serve students in their times of need, and they will gladly provide advice, counseling, and education to those who ask. At the very least, have a conversation. Speaking with one another about difficult subjects such as addiction may seem like a topic best left for the classroom, but there will not always be a classroom to learn these lessons in. The time for responsibility and community is now, for yourself and those around you. - --- MAP posted-by: Steve Heath