[This story contains mature and explicit content as well as themes that may be triggering to some, including, but not limited to, depictions and references to death, suicide, self-harm, and substance abuse. Please be mindful and seek help if you are struggling. https://findahelpline.com/] - [Excerpt: Chapter 1] "Noah, I know that you have been going through something and you don't want to talk about it but you need to start talking to someone," she says, leaning towards me and resting her elbows on her knees. "I can help you deal with it in different ways. Safer ways, Noah." I scoff quietly but don't say a word in response. Of course the shrink would say that. Of course she knows a safer way to handle it. So do I. I don't need to be a shrink for that. I didn't start taking drugs because I thought it was safe. I'm not an idiot. I take drugs because I want to get away from this life at least for a while. Because I want out of this picture perfect, fake little world that I've been born into. Talking about it isn't going to help me do that. Therapy isn't going to help me do that. [Started: December 29th, 2022]