-
The Misery That Saved My Life
Spencer Cook shares his journey from addiction to sobriety, highlighting that his struggle began as a means of survival rather than self-destruction. He emphasizes that addiction stems from not knowing how to live, leading him to build the SoberIn40 program… Continue reading
-
Grieving the Old Self
Briyenna Souter reflects on her personal growth, emphasizing the importance of grieving the past self while embracing change. She explores the mix of gratitude and reflection in her life, understanding others with compassion, and recognizing the necessity of setting boundaries.… Continue reading
-
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone: Why Connection Matters in Recovery
Burk Jackson, a 31-year recovery veteran, emphasizes the importance of connection in overcoming addiction. He built RecoveryBridge, a supportive platform for those in recovery to share their experiences and connect with others who understand their struggles. It aims to fill… Continue reading
-
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Treatment Insights
Substance abuse and mental health disorders are interrelated conditions that require integrated treatment for effective recovery. Treating them separately can lead to relapse and poorer outcomes. Comprehensive care acknowledges the complex relationship between these conditions, emphasizing trauma-informed practices and addressing… Continue reading
-
Running in Place: An ADHD & Fibro Letter to Myself
Drew Manchu reflects on the challenges of navigating ADHD, chronic pain, and societal misconceptions of laziness. With a focus on resilience and self-awareness, he emphasizes the importance of connection, creative outlets, and mindfulness in managing daily struggles. Despite the difficulties,… Continue reading
-
White Flag in the Void: A Recovery Poem
The poem explores themes of despair and invisibility, depicting a struggle against overwhelming pain and a sense of loss. The speaker feels overlooked and misunderstood, expressing how their suffering is appropriated by others. Ultimately, they resign to their fate, embodying… Continue reading
-
Breathe. Recalibrate. Breathe. Repeat.
Jason Mayo, a founder and writer, reflects on his 16 years of sobriety, acknowledging ongoing struggles with anxiety and self-doubt. He emphasizes the importance of connection and reaching out for support rather than isolating. Recovery is a continuous journey, and… Continue reading
-
A Tale of Anxiety and Using Alcohol to Cope
Sandra Smith shares her lifelong struggle with anxiety and its evolution, detailing early childhood experiences and coping mechanisms like alcohol, which ultimately exacerbated her mental health issues. Following a turning point in 2020, she embraced sobriety, healthier living, and self-awareness,… Continue reading
-
How Personal Loss Drives Advocacy in Substance Use Disorder
Larry Lamendola reflects on a monthly steering committee meeting focused on substance use disorder prevention. He advocates for releasing opioid settlement funds to assist those in need, inspired by his daughter Lisa’s loss to addiction. The meeting prompts thoughts on… Continue reading
-
Healing Through Vulnerability: My Personal Journey
Will Fruin reflects on his post-hospitalization journey of self-discovery and healing after 14.75 years of feeling lost. He emphasizes the importance of embracing vulnerability, overcoming intrusive thoughts, and shedding societal expectations. By accepting his chaotic past, he found community and… Continue reading
