Stories related to Addiction

Laura has suffered for 26 years with mental and physical illness that left her feeling worthless and alone. After many treatments and medications, the length and severity of her suffering led her to a better understanding of herself and the world around her.

Amanda spent years denying her alcoholism, afraid that facing it would liken her to her father. A hungover Sunday morning resulted in an epiphany that gave her the strength to face the trauma she had for so long tried to drown. Today, she revels in her sobriety.

Richard was homeless, a convicted bank robber, an addict, and the father of a deceased child. Today he is a student, a community advocate, a volunteer, and a mentor to those in need. His recovery journey has made him into the person he is proud to be today.

Hannah didn’t know how to express herself after decades of abuse. In an attempt to escape her mother’s violence, she moved in with her father yet was confronted by her stepmother’s emotional abuse. Despite this, education helped Hannah gain control.

Meg’s diagnosis enabled her to make sense of her past and her personality. Through learning she has bipolar disorder, Meg was able to come to terms with her addiction and make a decision about her marriage.

Undiagnosed depression as a child spiraled into a teen dependency on alcohol and drugs. Today, sober and recovering, Jay is a mental health advocate dedicated to ending the stigma around children with mental health struggles.

After serving 14 years in the military, Cynthia’s worsening PTSD led her into an opioid addiction. Through years of recovery involving rehab, faith, and storytelling, Cynthia found her saving grace.

Jackie recounts her dramatic shift from a thriving lawyer to a patient grappling with autoimmune encephalitis (AE), a rare brain illness. This powerful narrative reveals how trauma can be invisible, emphasizing resilience, the importance of support, and the hope of better days ahead.

Yolanda recounts her journey from childhood trauma to healing and empowerment. Through therapy, self-care, and forgiveness, she reclaimed her life after years of abuse and conditioning and now dedicates herself to helping others overcome similar struggles, proving that resilience and recovery are possible.

Dee-Dee had completely forgotten the trauma that ensued in the beginning of her childhood, leaving her emancipated at the age of 15. Now, Dee-Dee uses her lived experience to help others and advocate for mental health rights.