The Conversation: How Can You Help a Loved One Struggling With Addiction?

Diane Sawyer talks with a recovering drug addict about how he got sober.

ByABC News
February 15, 2010, 2:10 PM

Feb. 15, 2010— -- It's every parent's worst nightmare, realizing a son or daughter is addicted to drugs. But what can a family do to help?

In today's Conversation, Diane Sawyer talks with Nic Sheff, 27, a recovering meth addict and author of "Tweak," a memoir about his struggle with addiction. At age 11, Nic first tried marijuana, and by age 19 he had spiraled downward into a toxic methamphetamine habit. Nic's parents tried everything -- shuttling their son from one rehab center to another as he slipped further away from them.

After multiple setbacks and relapses, Nic is now two years sober. So what finally worked for Nic and his family? Does the tough love approach ever work? Hear Nic's advice to other parents dealing with drug-addicted children. It's an informative interview for anyone who has an addict in the family.

All this and more in today's Conversation.