- Alcohol
- Drugs
- Friends & Family
I have been on my recovery journey over twelve years. I first got sober with my friend—she has two months ahead of me. I am so glad that I don’t need alcohol or drugs in my life anymore!
I experienced a big turning point when I encountered my second DUI arrest. I needed to go to twelve-step meetings right away but it took me six weeks to actually walk into my first meeting.
Once I was ready to make a change, I gave it a chance and followed directions and took suggestions. I didn’t question anything that would help me reach my goal– I just did it. That’s what saved me. I didn’t have sober role models in my life before my recovery. I had blind faith when I went into my meetings and I gave it my all because I had nothing else to live for– that was my mentality at the time.
As I became sober, I realized how little I knew. For those first few years of recovery, I was on a pink cloud. My life changed. I was around my (mostly non-sober) family much more, but I had a strong foundation of recovery from the steps. I think getting a strong foundation is very important. Doing what I was taught to do by others who had been there is what saved me so many times.
My recovery is a source of pride. I feel proud every morning that I wake up without a hangover. Having integrity as a woman is a big deal for me!
I would tell anyone that wants to recover to not be afraid. Don’t be scared to ask for help. I didn’t have any sober family members to ask for help. I learned that anyone can ask friends, coworkers, or just walk into a meeting to receive support. Just keep coming back. I know it sounds cheesy, but that’s how I got sober! I got connected; I didn’t feel alone.