Helping others with addiction is important to me because of the profound impact it has not only on the person suffering but also on those around them. Addiction is a powerful vice that people often fall into due to circumstances beyond their control or by accident. In America, support for those struggling with addiction is lacking, leaving victims to drown alone or forcing their loved ones to pick up the pieces of a broken person. One person I personally saw struggle with addiction was my aunt. During my early childhood, my aunt dealt with substance abuse issues as a coping mechanism for her psychological problems. This led to excessive drinking and a DUI incident one night. Before this happened, she was an EMT driver, but she was unfortunately let go from her career due to this incident. This completely shifted the course of her life and caused her to spiral for a few years, eventually turning to harder drugs such as crack and other opiates. Fortunately, she was able to make it out of the pit she found herself in, mostly due to the help our family was privileged enough to provide. Despite our support, the journey of betterment was not easy for us. Just as my aunt struggled with her vices, we struggled to watch her in such a bad place. This problem is not unique to our family; many others face even greater challenges, including death and prison time. In my career, I will help those struggling with addiction by intentionally serving those who are victims of these vices and helping them to better themselves psychologically. I plan on entering the field of psychiatry after medical school because I want to help those who struggle with the same kinds of mental problems that people like my aunt and even myself have faced, which lead to unfortunate circumstances. The root of addiction often lies in underlying mental health issues, which cause individuals to fall victim to substances as a coping mechanism. By reaching out to those who don't have the help that people like my aunt were fortunate enough to receive, I hope to bring health and prosperity to those who otherwise would not be able to afford it. Addiction is by no means curable, but it is treatable, and I want to help those in need find the path to recovery. My aunt’s journey through addiction and recovery highlighted the critical role of psychological support and family intervention. It also exposed me to the gaps in our healthcare system concerning addiction treatment. I have seen firsthand how the absence of adequate support can devastate lives and families. This personal experience has driven my passion for psychiatry and my commitment to providing comprehensive care that addresses both the mental health issues and the addiction itself. Furthermore, my own encounters with mental health challenges have deepened my empathy and understanding of those battling addiction. By pursuing a career in psychiatry, I aim to create a supportive environment where individuals can address their mental health issues and work towards recovery without stigma or judgment. In conclusion, helping others with addiction is not just a professional goal for me but a deeply personal mission. I aspire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with addiction by providing the support and care they need to overcome their challenges and lead healthier, happier lives. Through my work, I hope to honor the journey of my aunt and many others like her, ensuring that no one has to face the battle of addiction alone.