January 25th, 2018.

While they anxiously were waiting to get into university life, a tragic and unexpected event occurred. Alex and Alessandra's sister had an accident and was hit by a driver who was drunk. He was arrested for manslaughter, and Aurélia and Artur went to visit their friend, with the intention of comforting him.

— Alex, my friend, I know how traumatic it is, but if I can help you with anything, don't hesitate to contact me. - Aurelia reported, tense with the context and sympathizing with Alex.

—Thanks friend, but you don´t have to.

—Brother, sometimes, we cannot understand what life brings us. I know that words will not console your pain and only time will relieve this pain, but I will always be by your side in any circumstance. — Artur said, trying to console him.

—Give me a hug, bro. — Pediu Alex.

Artur and Alex hugged each other and started to cry.

On the day of the funeral, a fact drew everyone's attention. Alex was completely drunk, with red eyes, because of whiskey that he had drunk the night before.

The deceased's brother was completely out of his mind, aggressive, nervous and started to quarrel.

— I want everyone here to know that this life sucks, while we have corrupt criminals and murderers living around us until the age of 70, my poor sister, a woman who never hurt anyone, was killed by an irresponsible person. Is the destination fair, my colleagues? Of course not, they talk too much about cultivating good values, virtues, helping the others, for what? To end up in a lifeless coffin, like Kátia's body! I cannot accept this tragedy! My God, why not me istead she ?! I wish it had happened to me. This crap life is meaningless. —He shouted while he threw his watch on the floor and broke it with intense anger.

— Stop it, Alex. Otherwise I´ll be forced to take you out of the funeral, respect your sister's memory. -  Josue declared, Alex's father.

-You can take me out, why are you looking at me strangely ?! The great truth is that no one has the courage to say everything they believe, I am disgusted! Is it fair? Corrupt businessmen walking in the Caribbean with fortunes in tax havens while I´m here? Is it fair? An alcoholic, who took her life, keep breathing? The young man shouted.

—Son, calm down! He's already been arrested, he'll pay for everything he did. — Sueli ratified, the victim's and Alex mother.

             —Mom,  you speak as if you didn´t know  how Brazilian justice is, full of loopholes to help the corrupt... This country is a mess, I bet that stupid will not spend even two years in tthe prison.

               —From here I can smell your beer, did you drink again?" I'm going to have to ask the security guards to expel you from here. — He threatened Josuel with a lot of anger.

              —Sir, is Alex drinking? —  Artur asked, surprised by the confusion.

               —Since Kátia passed away, he started to drink alcohol madly, Sueli and I try to keep him without it, but he always finds a way to buy that crap. Damn establishments that illegally sell alcohol to minors in this country! Josuel vented.

                —Alex, do you think your sister would be happy if she saw this? You're destroying yourself, alcoholic drinks can destroy you if you're not careful. Artur explained.

                —It is not going to destroy me, friend, I am already destroyed and who are you to say something? Remember last year? In that bar near the school we always drank a glass or another, after giving money to the owners of the bar. Alex remembered.

                 —We never crossed the line, where's my friend? You look like someone else, full of bitterness. —Arthur was surprised.

                  —Look, I know that nothing is going to bring her back. But  you cannot surrender to sadness. Alex, your sister wouldn't want that.  —Aurélia highlighted.

                 —The destiny  destroyed my life, I hate this hypocritical society, I hate anyone who tries to censor me, I'm sick of everything. —Alex was enraged, he started to vomit and was removed from the place by security guards.

               Hours later, arriving home, Gabriel and Isabel decide to comment with their son about what happened.

             Gabriel and Isabel, a few days before the accident, had noticed that their son was more mature. Artur had decided to follow the advice of his girlfriend Aurélia, established a routine, with the help of his beloved he bought an agenda and started to better organize his schedules and appointments, such as swimming training, he had also revealed his father's rudeness, who, upon realizing a greater maturity in the son, started to behave less harshly.

              —Son, today, I finally  understand how much you have matured. I want to apologize... On the way, I reflected how rude I was to you, I also know that trust does not regain easily, everything is a process. But if you want, we can try to understand each other better.

             —You finally recognized your mistakes, rigth, Gabriel? — Isabel said.

             —Dad, it was awful! My poor friend, I never thought I'd see him in that situation. I believe it was the trauma of losing his sister.

             —He should look for a treatment, I have colleagues who work in that area, when he is calmer, you can talk about it. Gabriel explained.

             —I really hope everything be resolved soon.  I am very afraid of him develop a heavier addiction, this is all very stressful. Can you, mom and dad, give me a hug?

—Of couse, son. We´ll always support you. — Isabel said. *

March 8th, 2018

Meanwhile, Sueli and Josuel argued with Alex about their destructive addiction.

— Look, boy. We are all distressed by this situation, but if you think alcohol will make you suffer less, you are terribly wrong. These nonsense act only destabilizes you.

—You are rigth, Josuel. —Sueli agreed.

— I'm lost, I need help. These two last months have been a torture for me, I even try to control myself. But I already lost control. When I see a bottle of beer, I start to drink thinking that it will be just one... Then comes the second bottle, the third... and when I realize it, I'm already sunk in my own addiction. Telling you the truth, before Kátia passed away I had already got drunk a few times, but everything got worse after the tragedy.

At this moment, Alex's other sister, Alessandra, a cute and sweet 12 years old little girl, left the room.

—I overheard the conversation, I'm cheering for you, little brother.

—Did you see? Even Alessandra feels the difference. Sueli concluded.

-Oh, my little ... I know I have done a lot of mess, but my love for this little princess here is sincere. I promise I will get away from those drinks. —Alex said, believing that he really would keep his promise. However, this compulsion is difficult to face.

During the conversation, Arthur called Alex.

—It's Arthur, I'll answer.

—Yes, friend. Alex said.

—Are you better?

—I´m trying.

—We need to talk about some complicated issue. Can you come to my apartament?

—Sure, I´m going.

—Where are you going? Josuel asked.

—I´m going to Artur´apartament, he wants to talk to me.

— All rigth, but don´t come late.

— Okay, Sir Josuel.

Alex got a taxi. However, when the taxi driver went to fill the car at a gas station near a bar, the young man was tempted.

—Sir, how much is this road?

—25, but weren't you going to that luxurious condominium here in Recife on the coast of Boa Viagem?

—I were, but there was a change of plans, you can keep the change.

— Okay.

When he arrived at the bar, Alex gave himself up again to his sickness,  the lie, he affirmed that he had forgotten his wallet and that he was 18 years old, which is when young people get the age of majority in Brazil. He started with a glass of beer, then another. While the hours passed, he got more and more drunk.

At that moment, Josuel was surprised by the delay of his son and called Arthur.

—Arthur, can you pass the celphone to Alex? I need to talk to him.

—Sir Josuel, I would pass to him, but he didn't come here, I thought he stayed at home, isn't he there?

—Oh, he left home about 4 hours ago, it is dark  already and he didn't come back, he said he would go to your penthouse, where is he then?

—Sir, I don't want to be pessimistic, but I believe he may be in a bar.

—Does it make sense? Will this hell ever end? Josuel despaired.

In the meantime, Alex was so drunk that he teased the other customers at the establishment.

—Hey, you there on purple clothes near to the cashier, did you know that your mother is a beauty? - The student provoked, when referring to a couple of lovers: Paulo and Clara.

—Besides being an alcoholic, you must be blind, because we're wearing white. —Clara Said.

— Don't talk to that delinquent , love. — Paulo oriented.

Delinquent, but I´m a player better than you! If this pretty woman wants to, I'll give her something that she won't even remember you, idiot. You are really pretty, right princess?

— Enough! I'll teach you a lesson, asshole. Paulo threatened, deeply stressed by Alex's teasing.

Paulo slapped twice Alex in his face, the security guard tried to contain him, but it was unsuccessful. Paulo pushed the security guard and continued to attack Alex, until he bleed.

— You don't need that, Paulo, you overreacted. — Clara said.

—These drunks deserve it, let's go. — Paulo ordered.

Minutes after the confrontation, Aurélia appeared.

Aurélia enjoyed going to that region, more precisely close to the charming neighborhood of Imbiribeira, she had gone there to enjoy a beer with her friends and for that reason, she came across this incident.

—Alex? Oh my God, are you here? Did you drink again? Aurélia was surprised.

— He got into a fight, I tried to stop it, but that guy was too strong. — The security reported.

—I'm going to get him out of here now, I'm glad I haven't had any alcohol yet, I'm going to take him to my house, make a dressing and inform his parents.

Arriving home, Aurélia fulfilled her promise, made a dressing and called Artur.

—His parents are desperate, they are even thinking about calling the police. — Arthur commented.

—Let them know that Alex is here at my home, he is very agitated, crying a lot. Aurelia revealed.

—Are you alone with him? Arthur worried.

—Yes, my parents went to Porto Alegre to visit my aunt and, as I have a second exam, I couldn't go.

—Take care, love. When he drinks, he gets out of control.

—I know, but it's going to be okay.

—Look, I'm going to talk to Sir. Josuel. In a few minutes he and his wife will be arriving there. – Arthur alerted.

25 minutes later, Josuel and Sueli arrived at Aurélia's residence.

              —Do we have to put him in a clinic? - Josuel asked, extremely tense and apprehensive, almost starting to cry.

           —One more time, you broke the trust we had on you. — Sueli lamented, very tense and in tears.

            —You only know how to criticize and humiliate me, I bet you would be happier if I hadn't been born.  Alex shouted, terribly enraged. 

           —Don't say that, Alex. They care about you, otherwise they wouldn't even have come here. - Aurélia said.

             —Nobody cares about me, they just say that I'm a drunk, an alcoholic, they don't want to help me.

         —Enough! Aurélia and Sueli, help me to get him in the car, I will take him back home. Josuel asked.

          Arriving at the place where he lived, Alex remained upset.

           —I wish I could have stayed in that bar, the drink relaxes me, takes me out of this cruel reality that I live in.

        —Brother, are you drinking again?" - Alessandra said in tears.

         —That's right. Your brother here is the drunk that everyone talks about.

           —Stop it now, don't you see that she's crying? — Sueli warned.

           —So I'm not going to play with you again. Alessandra claimed.

            —And do you think I want to participate these stupid games? — Alex had a attack and ended up hurting Alessandra's arm, if he hadn't been held by his father, the damage could have been even worse.

              —Are you going crazy ?! I'll teach you a lesson. Josuel warned.

Josuel locked his son in room, he pushed the door strong, but he still couldn't get out. *

         March 15th, 2018.

              The next day, Alex woke up with a hangover, he could barely remember the night before, but his mother confided everything that happened, he was deeply sorry and ashamed.

          —Mom, does Alex still wants to hit me?

          —No, little sister. I was out of my mind, I will stop drinking for you to trust me again. Alex said, intensely embarrassed and saddened by the context he lived in.

         —Sorry, Alex. I don't want to talk to you anymore, I'm going to my room.

       Alex had a crying crisis when he felt the rejection from that poor child's eyes.

       Minutes later, Aurélia and Artur decided to visit their friend.

— I'm a beast, right? I hurt my sister, the person I love most in life.

— It happens to many people when they are addicted to alcohol. — Aurélia reported.

— There are some of my father's colleagues who work with this, who knows if you have therapy, have a treatment." - Advised Arthur.

— That's what I have to do, otherwise the consequences can be even more devastating. Alex concluded.

March 18th, 2018.

Alex went to the first appointment with the psychologist Luana.

—Doctor, my name is Alex and I came to have your help because of my alcohol addiction. A few days ago I had a very bad discussion with my family and ended up disappointing them a lot.

—And when did you start drinking alcohol?

— It was when my sister died in a car accident, I couldn't deal with that pain, I thought that drinking would make me forget about this nightmare. Despite that, it only made my situation worse.

—Mourning processes are delicate and complex, anyway, it is good that you are aware of the risks of alcohol, for emotions and for your behavior. The psychologist explained.

— I know, doctor. Do you still have any hope on me? I was lucky that my Nutrition course is for the second semester. If I had started studying now, it would have been a disaster! Is there a safe treatment for alcoholism?

—Of course, there are already several forms of treatment, I recommend starting and maintaining therapy sessions and I will also refer you to a psychiatrist, who will prescribe some medications to help you contain your addiction.

— I hope God wants it worth. *

June 5th, 2018.

The therapy was progressing well, the medications also helped to stabilize Alex's condition. Artur and Aurélia were his great suport in this process. He had completed two months without drinking. Although he knew the challenge of being sober, he was quite happy with his small achievements. So, he decided to have a conversation with Alessandra.

— Little sister, I know that what I did was crazy, but I have been trying to correct myself, I have been 2 months without alcohol, I want to redeem myself, but I am still very sad because you are not talking to me... I dream about the day you will forgive me.

—Well, I have noticed that you have returned to be more attentive at home and you are happier, I will forgive you, but I want you to confirm, those bad days have passed or not?

Chapter 9

            While Alex finally got along with his family, Aurélia got good grades and finished the first semester of Medicine with praise. Artur, on the other hand, was going through an almost opposite situation, he did well in the physics tests, however in the other disciplines, he had very bad results.  

           —I don't know what to do, Aurelia. I will fail, I am a fool, do you believe that my mistakes are all because lack of attention? Shit! I've been like this since high school, I can only concentrate on something when it gets my interest, besides that I'm always forgetting a lot.

            —Love, there is a colleague  who is a Neurologist, she can helps you, request some tests, I believe it will be beneficial.

            —My father always says that I am supposed to look for a specialist, but he spoke with such aggression so I didn't want to do it. But recently,  he improved a lot! You're right, give me her contact and I'll make an appointment.

             June 12th, 2018.

           Arthur arrived at the clinic, a little nervous and downcast. He waited to be seen by the doctor Renata.

       —Artur Donetes, is that you?

        —Yes, that´s me.

       —What brought you here? Any memory problem?

        —Not only because of memory, I´m a student of environmental engineering and I´m having a bad period… very low grades, despite having made a lot of effort and established a routine recently, I feel that I cannot pay attention to the most of these subjects, on the other hand, when I like something, I get a little obsessed, I think about that theme and forget everything around me, it was like that with physics.

      —And since when do you have difficulty for regulating your attention?

       —Since I was a kid, I was too much or nothing, very good at exact subject, but terrible at humanities and language, I could never feel myself in the class, the teacher talked about a subject and I thought about the garden, my home, the movie I watched the day before, but not about the class, because of that everyone always called me distracted. Do you believe that when I was 8 years old, one teacher booked an excursion to Porto de Galinhas, all the boys were in swim trunks and prepared for get in to the sea and I was the only one who forgot my swim trunks and took a bath in my underwear on the beach ?! Everyone laughed at me.

      —And does that affect you today?

         —Yes, it bothers me a lot, those bad comments I hear, implying that I am out of my mind and what make the things worse, is that I´m a little restless

           —What do mean with restless?

—Since I was a kid, I always messed at school, I couldn't stay quiet, I ran for the place... I really liked adrenaline! Even today, I´m like this, I have insomnia, I can't sleep well, then I walk around the apartment at dawn. And i have the habit of interrupting other people's conversations and answering questions before people asked.

—I understood.

— Do you believe that you have a diagnosis associated this with something like I´m from another planet?

— In fact, I believe it is ADHD.

—AD what, doctor?

— Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

—I've heard of it, but doesn't it only happen in children? Wouldn't I need to have an exam to receive this diagnosis?

—There are no tests to detect ADHD, the diagnosis is clinical. It starts in childhood and in many cases continues into adulthood. In fact, I prefer to say that it is unstable attention, in matters that arouse your passion, such as physics. You present episodes of ‘‘ hyperfocus’, forgetting the world around. Despite this, in most cases has a strong inattention, which causes losses in  academic life. And all this reported unrest is caused by that diagnosis.

—I understand! And if I don´t treat this, can it cause a lot of damage?

—Sadly yes. From a greater risk of being involved in accidents to inattention, to a greater danger of abuse of alcohol to illicit drugs.

— And do you have treatment? Is there anything that can help me?

—Yes, in addition to psychological counseling, there are psychostimulants, drugs used for these cases of attention deficit. I will prescribe you and you will use it three times a day, regularly. In the beginning, it can give boring side effects, such as headache and anxiety. However, they tend to disappear after a few days, you will notice the improvement. obs: psychostimulants in English becomes psychostimulants.

- I understand.

—I also advise you to set up a routine, organize your appointments, maybe buy an agenda to write them down.

—I've been doing this, I'm going to continue.

Hours later, the blonde commented to his girlfriend about his diagnosis.

—It is never good to receive such news, although knowing all that  has a known cause, encourages me to better understand my case.

— I had already studied a little about ADHD, I will help you. I will continue to help you to remember your commitments, in the same way, I will help you set up a study schedule.

—You are na Angel in my life, Aurélia.

—When we love someone, we just feel complete when we realize that we have done all the positive possibilities to see the happiness of the loved person. Aurélia declared.

—That´s so romantic. Artur melted.

Arthur and Aurélia kissed and slept together again.

The other day, the protagonist commented about the consultation with the parents, who were quite surprised.

— I, as a pharmacist, have already attended to some young people who used medication for ADHD, in fact you have some characteristics of this disorder, I should have noticed before, but, as people say, it is sometimes easier to evaluate people outside of our social circle than your children, because as a mother I always had a tendency to see everything in a more pleasant way, I am a terrible mother, right? Isabel complained.

— Isabel. Don't blame yourself my dear, telling you the truth, I always asked Artur to look for a specialist, but he always thought it was my exaggeration, but I have to take half of guilt, it's been a while since I realized that I've been very thick, impatient, sorry my son, you are right when you say that because I am obsessed with work, I left your mother and you aside, forgive me, being a father is difficult, I want to try to start again. He surprised Gabriel by making these revelations with an air of sadness and, at that times, he even cried with regret and guilt.

— You can't delete the past, but analyzing and recognizing mistakes is an excellent opportunity to not repeat them, I think it's important to talk about what we feel and try to understand each other's point of view, I believe that this whole situation represents a new beginning, despite all the confusion, you are my parents and I love you. Arthur said.

Arthur, Isabel and Gabriel hugged each other and promised to be more patient with each other.

Chapter 10

July 13th, 2018.

Alex completed now 4 months without drinking  alcohol, he had turned into 18, his relationship with his family was more harmonious, he started the Nutrition course and decided to attend meetings at AA (Alcoholics Anonymous), a community that help people who has problems with alcohol, at the meetings he started to understand his case better and started to work harder and harder to overcome this disease.

Yasmim was standing out in the Law course, Patrício and her were more and more united, he was studying Physical Education, and with great dedication, he managed to improve himself in swimming and his dream of being a professional athlete was not so distant.

Júlia now lives in Rio de Janeiro, in a luxurious apartment close to Ipanema Beach, she was enjoying the Psychology course and engaged in a relationship with Danilo Gutano, a millionaire and famous athlete of the Brazilian football team.

 The Recife School of Youth and Knowledge continued to be considered one of the best educational institutions in Brazil and received more and more students.

Artur, with the help of the psychologist, the medications and his parents, managed how to do better about his attention, and even it is hard, he could get good grades and pass the subjects. He and Aurélia had gone out to lunch and celebrate the news.

— Arthur, did you order crab? I don't know... yesterday I threw up all day, I feel very sick, I´m praying to God to not throw up again today.

—Aurélia, about these nausea, what do you think it can be?

— A pregnancy? I didn´t make the test yet, but based on the way we've been making love like there's no tomorrow, it's very likely.

— I never thought of it, what a happiness. - The lover celebrated.

— So, do you really want to have a child ?! I will have to lock the course when I am closer to give birth.

— No problem, I'll give you all the assistance you need, I can't wait to see a mini-Arthur walking around.

— I'm sorry to disappoint you, I was just joking, I didn't get sick or anything, I lied to see your reaction.

— This kind of joke is not funny.

—But I liked your reaction, besides that, it´s not the right time.

— Yes, we are still young, other opportunities will come. I have a surprise.—Artur said.

—What is it?

— Two passports to the wonderful city! If you want to come with me, we will stay in a trendy hotel in the pleasant neighborhood of Leblon.

—Of couse I want! When is the travel, Artur?

—Next week, Aurélia, I want to enjoy our vacation.

July 21th, 2018.

The lovebirds were surprised by the beauty of Rio de Janeiro, from the amazing beaches, such as Copacabana and Arpoador, to the friendliness and hospitality of those people. The other day, they went to Christ the Redeemer to exchange love wishes.

—Artur, I wanted to freeze the time to always have you in my arms.

—You don't need that much, I will always be closer to you, I will never leave you, my queen.

—Do you promise?

—I promisse if you kiss me.

They kissed each other and made plans for the future.

The end.

Author´s note

 consider adolescence as a very difficult and important phase, it is when discoveries and personality formation begin. For this reason, I decided to address themes that are present in the young world, such as family conflicts, bullying and alcohol, since I believe that giving visibility to some topics I can help to create more promising debates.

Unfortunately, some situations, with due proportions, are present in real life, since it is not uncommon for the media to comment about cases of alcoholism, even in this young age group. Therefore, I believe that must have more specific public policies to provide psychological support to young people who, like Alex, suffer from the complications of this addiction.

In addition, another issue present in today's society and which has been provoking debates in the scientific community is about the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. In this perspective, I believe that certain themes should have greater visibility in the media, since information is a great ally in this trajectory.

In short, I want to thank my family members who encouraged me on this journey, especially my grandfather, Orcelina, my grandmother, Carlindo (in memoriam), my father, Eraldo, my sister, Maria Clara, my friends, Rosileide, Leiliane and Felipe. And to you, dear reader, who made some hours of your precious time available to read this book.

To you all, my most sincere thanks.

January 25th, 2018.

While they anxiously were waiting to get into university life, a tragic and unexpected event occurred. Alex and Alessandra's sister had an accident and was hit by a driver who was drunk. He was arrested for manslaughter, and Aurélia and Artur went to visit their friend, with the intention of comforting him.

— Alex, my friend, I know how traumatic it is, but if I can help you with anything, don't hesitate to contact me. - Aurelia reported, tense with the context and sympathizing with Alex.

—Thanks friend, but you don´t have to.

—Brother, sometimes, we cannot understand what life brings us. I know that words will not console your pain and only time will relieve this pain, but I will always be by your side in any circumstance. — Artur said, trying to console him.

—Give me a hug, bro. — Pediu Alex.

Artur and Alex hugged each other and started to cry.

On the day of the funeral, a fact drew everyone's attention. Alex was completely drunk, with red eyes, because of whiskey that he had drunk the night before.

The deceased's brother was completely out of his mind, aggressive, nervous and started to quarrel.

— I want everyone here to know that this life sucks, while we have corrupt criminals and murderers living around us until the age of 70, my poor sister, a woman who never hurt anyone, was killed by an irresponsible person. Is the destination fair, my colleagues? Of course not, they talk too much about cultivating good values, virtues, helping the others, for what? To end up in a lifeless coffin, like Kátia's body! I cannot accept this tragedy! My God, why not me istead she ?! I wish it had happened to me. This crap life is meaningless. —He shouted while he threw his watch on the floor and broke it with intense anger.

— Stop it, Alex. Otherwise I´ll be forced to take you out of the funeral, respect your sister's memory. -  Josue declared, Alex's father.

-You can take me out, why are you looking at me strangely ?! The great truth is that no one has the courage to say everything they believe, I am disgusted! Is it fair? Corrupt businessmen walking in the Caribbean with fortunes in tax havens while I´m here? Is it fair? An alcoholic, who took her life, keep breathing? The young man shouted.

—Son, calm down! He's already been arrested, he'll pay for everything he did. — Sueli ratified, the victim's and Alex mother.

             —Mom,  you speak as if you didn´t know  how Brazilian justice is, full of loopholes to help the corrupt... This country is a mess, I bet that stupid will not spend even two years in tthe prison.

               —From here I can smell your beer, did you drink again?" I'm going to have to ask the security guards to expel you from here. — He threatened Josuel with a lot of anger.

              —Sir, is Alex drinking? —  Artur asked, surprised by the confusion.

               —Since Kátia passed away, he started to drink alcohol madly, Sueli and I try to keep him without it, but he always finds a way to buy that crap. Damn establishments that illegally sell alcohol to minors in this country! Josuel vented.

                —Alex, do you think your sister would be happy if she saw this? You're destroying yourself, alcoholic drinks can destroy you if you're not careful. Artur explained.

                —It is not going to destroy me, friend, I am already destroyed and who are you to say something? Remember last year? In that bar near the school we always drank a glass or another, after giving money to the owners of the bar. Alex remembered.

                 —We never crossed the line, where's my friend? You look like someone else, full of bitterness. —Arthur was surprised.

                  —Look, I know that nothing is going to bring her back. But  you cannot surrender to sadness. Alex, your sister wouldn't want that.  —Aurélia highlighted.

                 —The destiny  destroyed my life, I hate this hypocritical society, I hate anyone who tries to censor me, I'm sick of everything. —Alex was enraged, he started to vomit and was removed from the place by security guards.

               Hours later, arriving home, Gabriel and Isabel decide to comment with their son about what happened.

             Gabriel and Isabel, a few days before the accident, had noticed that their son was more mature. Artur had decided to follow the advice of his girlfriend Aurélia, established a routine, with the help of his beloved he bought an agenda and started to better organize his schedules and appointments, such as swimming training, he had also revealed his father's rudeness, who, upon realizing a greater maturity in the son, started to behave less harshly.

              —Son, today, I finally  understand how much you have matured. I want to apologize... On the way, I reflected how rude I was to you, I also know that trust does not regain easily, everything is a process. But if you want, we can try to understand each other better.

             —You finally recognized your mistakes, rigth, Gabriel? — Isabel said.

             —Dad, it was awful! My poor friend, I never thought I'd see him in that situation. I believe it was the trauma of losing his sister.

             —He should look for a treatment, I have colleagues who work in that area, when he is calmer, you can talk about it. Gabriel explained.

             —I really hope everything be resolved soon.  I am very afraid of him develop a heavier addiction, this is all very stressful. Can you, mom and dad, give me a hug?

—Of couse, son. We´ll always support you. — Isabel said. *

March 8th, 2018

Meanwhile, Sueli and Josuel argued with Alex about their destructive addiction.

— Look, boy. We are all distressed by this situation, but if you think alcohol will make you suffer less, you are terribly wrong. These nonsense act only destabilizes you.

—You are rigth, Josuel. —Sueli agreed.

— I'm lost, I need help. These two last months have been a torture for me, I even try to control myself. But I already lost control. When I see a bottle of beer, I start to drink thinking that it will be just one... Then comes the second bottle, the third... and when I realize it, I'm already sunk in my own addiction. Telling you the truth, before Kátia passed away I had already got drunk a few times, but everything got worse after the tragedy.

At this moment, Alex's other sister, Alessandra, a cute and sweet 12 years old little girl, left the room.

—I overheard the conversation, I'm cheering for you, little brother.

—Did you see? Even Alessandra feels the difference. Sueli concluded.

-Oh, my little ... I know I have done a lot of mess, but my love for this little princess here is sincere. I promise I will get away from those drinks. —Alex said, believing that he really would keep his promise. However, this compulsion is difficult to face.

During the conversation, Arthur called Alex.

—It's Arthur, I'll answer.

—Yes, friend. Alex said.

—Are you better?

—I´m trying.

—We need to talk about some complicated issue. Can you come to my apartament?

—Sure, I´m going.

—Where are you going? Josuel asked.

—I´m going to Artur´apartament, he wants to talk to me.

— All rigth, but don´t come late.

— Okay, Sir Josuel.

Alex got a taxi. However, when the taxi driver went to fill the car at a gas station near a bar, the young man was tempted.

—Sir, how much is this road?

—25, but weren't you going to that luxurious condominium here in Recife on the coast of Boa Viagem?

—I were, but there was a change of plans, you can keep the change.

— Okay.

When he arrived at the bar, Alex gave himself up again to his sickness,  the lie, he affirmed that he had forgotten his wallet and that he was 18 years old, which is when young people get the age of majority in Brazil. He started with a glass of beer, then another. While the hours passed, he got more and more drunk.

At that moment, Josuel was surprised by the delay of his son and called Arthur.

—Arthur, can you pass the celphone to Alex? I need to talk to him.

—Sir Josuel, I would pass to him, but he didn't come here, I thought he stayed at home, isn't he there?

—Oh, he left home about 4 hours ago, it is dark  already and he didn't come back, he said he would go to your penthouse, where is he then?

—Sir, I don't want to be pessimistic, but I believe he may be in a bar.

—Does it make sense? Will this hell ever end? Josuel despaired.

In the meantime, Alex was so drunk that he teased the other customers at the establishment.

—Hey, you there on purple clothes near to the cashier, did you know that your mother is a beauty? - The student provoked, when referring to a couple of lovers: Paulo and Clara.

—Besides being an alcoholic, you must be blind, because we're wearing white. —Clara Said.

— Don't talk to that delinquent , love. — Paulo oriented.

Delinquent, but I´m a player better than you! If this pretty woman wants to, I'll give her something that she won't even remember you, idiot. You are really pretty, right princess?

— Enough! I'll teach you a lesson, asshole. Paulo threatened, deeply stressed by Alex's teasing.

Paulo slapped twice Alex in his face, the security guard tried to contain him, but it was unsuccessful. Paulo pushed the security guard and continued to attack Alex, until he bleed.

— You don't need that, Paulo, you overreacted. — Clara said.

—These drunks deserve it, let's go. — Paulo ordered.

Minutes after the confrontation, Aurélia appeared.

Aurélia enjoyed going to that region, more precisely close to the charming neighborhood of Imbiribeira, she had gone there to enjoy a beer with her friends and for that reason, she came across this incident.

—Alex? Oh my God, are you here? Did you drink again? Aurélia was surprised.

— He got into a fight, I tried to stop it, but that guy was too strong. — The security reported.

—I'm going to get him out of here now, I'm glad I haven't had any alcohol yet, I'm going to take him to my house, make a dressing and inform his parents.

Arriving home, Aurélia fulfilled her promise, made a dressing and called Artur.

—His parents are desperate, they are even thinking about calling the police. — Arthur commented.

—Let them know that Alex is here at my home, he is very agitated, crying a lot. Aurelia revealed.

—Are you alone with him? Arthur worried.

—Yes, my parents went to Porto Alegre to visit my aunt and, as I have a second exam, I couldn't go.

—Take care, love. When he drinks, he gets out of control.

—I know, but it's going to be okay.

—Look, I'm going to talk to Sir. Josuel. In a few minutes he and his wife will be arriving there. – Arthur alerted.

25 minutes later, Josuel and Sueli arrived at Aurélia's residence.

              —Do we have to put him in a clinic? - Josuel asked, extremely tense and apprehensive, almost starting to cry.

           —One more time, you broke the trust we had on you. — Sueli lamented, very tense and in tears.

            —You only know how to criticize and humiliate me, I bet you would be happier if I hadn't been born.  Alex shouted, terribly enraged. 

           —Don't say that, Alex. They care about you, otherwise they wouldn't even have come here. - Aurélia said.

             —Nobody cares about me, they just say that I'm a drunk, an alcoholic, they don't want to help me.

         —Enough! Aurélia and Sueli, help me to get him in the car, I will take him back home. Josuel asked.

          Arriving at the place where he lived, Alex remained upset.

           —I wish I could have stayed in that bar, the drink relaxes me, takes me out of this cruel reality that I live in.

        —Brother, are you drinking again?" - Alessandra said in tears.

         —That's right. Your brother here is the drunk that everyone talks about.

           —Stop it now, don't you see that she's crying? — Sueli warned.

           —So I'm not going to play with you again. Alessandra claimed.

            —And do you think I want to participate these stupid games? — Alex had a attack and ended up hurting Alessandra's arm, if he hadn't been held by his father, the damage could have been even worse.

              —Are you going crazy ?! I'll teach you a lesson. Josuel warned.

Josuel locked his son in room, he pushed the door strong, but he still couldn't get out. *

         March 15th, 2018.

              The next day, Alex woke up with a hangover, he could barely remember the night before, but his mother confided everything that happened, he was deeply sorry and ashamed.

          —Mom, does Alex still wants to hit me?

          —No, little sister. I was out of my mind, I will stop drinking for you to trust me again. Alex said, intensely embarrassed and saddened by the context he lived in.

         —Sorry, Alex. I don't want to talk to you anymore, I'm going to my room.

       Alex had a crying crisis when he felt the rejection from that poor child's eyes.

       Minutes later, Aurélia and Artur decided to visit their friend.

— I'm a beast, right? I hurt my sister, the person I love most in life.

— It happens to many people when they are addicted to alcohol. — Aurélia reported.

— There are some of my father's colleagues who work with this, who knows if you have therapy, have a treatment." - Advised Arthur.

— That's what I have to do, otherwise the consequences can be even more devastating. Alex concluded.

March 18th, 2018.

Alex went to the first appointment with the psychologist Luana.

—Doctor, my name is Alex and I came to have your help because of my alcohol addiction. A few days ago I had a very bad discussion with my family and ended up disappointing them a lot.

—And when did you start drinking alcohol?

— It was when my sister died in a car accident, I couldn't deal with that pain, I thought that drinking would make me forget about this nightmare. Despite that, it only made my situation worse.

—Mourning processes are delicate and complex, anyway, it is good that you are aware of the risks of alcohol, for emotions and for your behavior. The psychologist explained.

— I know, doctor. Do you still have any hope on me? I was lucky that my Nutrition course is for the second semester. If I had started studying now, it would have been a disaster! Is there a safe treatment for alcoholism?

—Of course, there are already several forms of treatment, I recommend starting and maintaining therapy sessions and I will also refer you to a psychiatrist, who will prescribe some medications to help you contain your addiction.

— I hope God wants it worth. *

June 5th, 2018.

The therapy was progressing well, the medications also helped to stabilize Alex's condition. Artur and Aurélia were his great suport in this process. He had completed two months without drinking. Although he knew the challenge of being sober, he was quite happy with his small achievements. So, he decided to have a conversation with Alessandra.

— Little sister, I know that what I did was crazy, but I have been trying to correct myself, I have been 2 months without alcohol, I want to redeem myself, but I am still very sad because you are not talking to me... I dream about the day you will forgive me.

—Well, I have noticed that you have returned to be more attentive at home and you are happier, I will forgive you, but I want you to confirm, those bad days have passed or not?

Chapter 9

            While Alex finally got along with his family, Aurélia got good grades and finished the first semester of Medicine with praise. Artur, on the other hand, was going through an almost opposite situation, he did well in the physics tests, however in the other disciplines, he had very bad results.  

           —I don't know what to do, Aurelia. I will fail, I am a fool, do you believe that my mistakes are all because lack of attention? Shit! I've been like this since high school, I can only concentrate on something when it gets my interest, besides that I'm always forgetting a lot.

            —Love, there is a colleague  who is a Neurologist, she can helps you, request some tests, I believe it will be beneficial.

            —My father always says that I am supposed to look for a specialist, but he spoke with such aggression so I didn't want to do it. But recently,  he improved a lot! You're right, give me her contact and I'll make an appointment.

             June 12th, 2018.

           Arthur arrived at the clinic, a little nervous and downcast. He waited to be seen by the doctor Renata.

       —Artur Donetes, is that you?

        —Yes, that´s me.

       —What brought you here? Any memory problem?

        —Not only because of memory, I´m a student of environmental engineering and I´m having a bad period… very low grades, despite having made a lot of effort and established a routine recently, I feel that I cannot pay attention to the most of these subjects, on the other hand, when I like something, I get a little obsessed, I think about that theme and forget everything around me, it was like that with physics.

      —And since when do you have difficulty for regulating your attention?

       —Since I was a kid, I was too much or nothing, very good at exact subject, but terrible at humanities and language, I could never feel myself in the class, the teacher talked about a subject and I thought about the garden, my home, the movie I watched the day before, but not about the class, because of that everyone always called me distracted. Do you believe that when I was 8 years old, one teacher booked an excursion to Porto de Galinhas, all the boys were in swim trunks and prepared for get in to the sea and I was the only one who forgot my swim trunks and took a bath in my underwear on the beach ?! Everyone laughed at me.

      —And does that affect you today?

         —Yes, it bothers me a lot, those bad comments I hear, implying that I am out of my mind and what make the things worse, is that I´m a little restless

           —What do mean with restless?

—Since I was a kid, I always messed at school, I couldn't stay quiet, I ran for the place... I really liked adrenaline! Even today, I´m like this, I have insomnia, I can't sleep well, then I walk around the apartment at dawn. And i have the habit of interrupting other people's conversations and answering questions before people asked.

—I understood.

— Do you believe that you have a diagnosis associated this with something like I´m from another planet?

— In fact, I believe it is ADHD.

—AD what, doctor?

— Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

—I've heard of it, but doesn't it only happen in children? Wouldn't I need to have an exam to receive this diagnosis?

—There are no tests to detect ADHD, the diagnosis is clinical. It starts in childhood and in many cases continues into adulthood. In fact, I prefer to say that it is unstable attention, in matters that arouse your passion, such as physics. You present episodes of ‘‘ hyperfocus’, forgetting the world around. Despite this, in most cases has a strong inattention, which causes losses in  academic life. And all this reported unrest is caused by that diagnosis.

—I understand! And if I don´t treat this, can it cause a lot of damage?

—Sadly yes. From a greater risk of being involved in accidents to inattention, to a greater danger of abuse of alcohol to illicit drugs.

— And do you have treatment? Is there anything that can help me?

—Yes, in addition to psychological counseling, there are psychostimulants, drugs used for these cases of attention deficit. I will prescribe you and you will use it three times a day, regularly. In the beginning, it can give boring side effects, such as headache and anxiety. However, they tend to disappear after a few days, you will notice the improvement. obs: psychostimulants in English becomes psychostimulants.

- I understand.

—I also advise you to set up a routine, organize your appointments, maybe buy an agenda to write them down.

—I've been doing this, I'm going to continue.

Hours later, the blonde commented to his girlfriend about his diagnosis.

—It is never good to receive such news, although knowing all that  has a known cause, encourages me to better understand my case.

— I had already studied a little about ADHD, I will help you. I will continue to help you to remember your commitments, in the same way, I will help you set up a study schedule.

—You are na Angel in my life, Aurélia.

—When we love someone, we just feel complete when we realize that we have done all the positive possibilities to see the happiness of the loved person. Aurélia declared.

—That´s so romantic. Artur melted.

Arthur and Aurélia kissed and slept together again.

The other day, the protagonist commented about the consultation with the parents, who were quite surprised.

— I, as a pharmacist, have already attended to some young people who used medication for ADHD, in fact you have some characteristics of this disorder, I should have noticed before, but, as people say, it is sometimes easier to evaluate people outside of our social circle than your children, because as a mother I always had a tendency to see everything in a more pleasant way, I am a terrible mother, right? Isabel complained.

— Isabel. Don't blame yourself my dear, telling you the truth, I always asked Artur to look for a specialist, but he always thought it was my exaggeration, but I have to take half of guilt, it's been a while since I realized that I've been very thick, impatient, sorry my son, you are right when you say that because I am obsessed with work, I left your mother and you aside, forgive me, being a father is difficult, I want to try to start again. He surprised Gabriel by making these revelations with an air of sadness and, at that times, he even cried with regret and guilt.

— You can't delete the past, but analyzing and recognizing mistakes is an excellent opportunity to not repeat them, I think it's important to talk about what we feel and try to understand each other's point of view, I believe that this whole situation represents a new beginning, despite all the confusion, you are my parents and I love you. Arthur said.

Arthur, Isabel and Gabriel hugged each other and promised to be more patient with each other.

Chapter 10

July 13th, 2018.

Alex completed now 4 months without drinking  alcohol, he had turned into 18, his relationship with his family was more harmonious, he started the Nutrition course and decided to attend meetings at AA (Alcoholics Anonymous), a community that help people who has problems with alcohol, at the meetings he started to understand his case better and started to work harder and harder to overcome this disease.

Yasmim was standing out in the Law course, Patrício and her were more and more united, he was studying Physical Education, and with great dedication, he managed to improve himself in swimming and his dream of being a professional athlete was not so distant.

Júlia now lives in Rio de Janeiro, in a luxurious apartment close to Ipanema Beach, she was enjoying the Psychology course and engaged in a relationship with Danilo Gutano, a millionaire and famous athlete of the Brazilian football team.

 The Recife School of Youth and Knowledge continued to be considered one of the best educational institutions in Brazil and received more and more students.

Artur, with the help of the psychologist, the medications and his parents, managed how to do better about his attention, and even it is hard, he could get good grades and pass the subjects. He and Aurélia had gone out to lunch and celebrate the news.

— Arthur, did you order crab? I don't know... yesterday I threw up all day, I feel very sick, I´m praying to God to not throw up again today.

—Aurélia, about these nausea, what do you think it can be?

— A pregnancy? I didn´t make the test yet, but based on the way we've been making love like there's no tomorrow, it's very likely.

— I never thought of it, what a happiness. - The lover celebrated.

— So, do you really want to have a child ?! I will have to lock the course when I am closer to give birth.

— No problem, I'll give you all the assistance you need, I can't wait to see a mini-Arthur walking around.

— I'm sorry to disappoint you, I was just joking, I didn't get sick or anything, I lied to see your reaction.

— This kind of joke is not funny.

—But I liked your reaction, besides that, it´s not the right time.

— Yes, we are still young, other opportunities will come. I have a surprise.—Artur said.

—What is it?

— Two passports to the wonderful city! If you want to come with me, we will stay in a trendy hotel in the pleasant neighborhood of Leblon.

—Of couse I want! When is the travel, Artur?

—Next week, Aurélia, I want to enjoy our vacation.

July 21th, 2018.

The lovebirds were surprised by the beauty of Rio de Janeiro, from the amazing beaches, such as Copacabana and Arpoador, to the friendliness and hospitality of those people. The other day, they went to Christ the Redeemer to exchange love wishes.

—Artur, I wanted to freeze the time to always have you in my arms.

—You don't need that much, I will always be closer to you, I will never leave you, my queen.

—Do you promise?

—I promisse if you kiss me.

They kissed each other and made plans for the future.

The end.

Author´s note

 consider adolescence as a very difficult and important phase, it is when discoveries and personality formation begin. For this reason, I decided to address themes that are present in the young world, such as family conflicts, bullying and alcohol, since I believe that giving visibility to some topics I can help to create more promising debates.

Unfortunately, some situations, with due proportions, are present in real life, since it is not uncommon for the media to comment about cases of alcoholism, even in this young age group. Therefore, I believe that must have more specific public policies to provide psychological support to young people who, like Alex, suffer from the complications of this addiction.

In addition, another issue present in today's society and which has been provoking debates in the scientific community is about the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. In this perspective, I believe that certain themes should have greater visibility in the media, since information is a great ally in this trajectory.

In short, I want to thank my family members who encouraged me on this journey, especially my grandfather, Orcelina, my grandmother, Carlindo (in memoriam), my father, Eraldo, my sister, Maria Clara, my friends, Rosileide, Leiliane and Felipe. And to you, dear reader, who made some hours of your precious time available to read this book.

To you all, my most sincere thanks.