I started drinking when I was 15, and by the time I was 21, my alcoholism had taken full control of my life. I experimented with many other substances, including marijuana, cocaine, and opioids, which seemed to numb my anxiety and depression. I didn’t realize at the time that the substances were just a temporary escape from the pain. By the time I was 24, I had lost everything—my family’s trust, my friends, and any sense of stability. That was when I knew something had to change. Getting clean wasn’t easy, but I did it all at once, eliminating every substance from my life, including the opioids that had such a hold on me. The road to recovery was tough, but with the support of my family, a 12-step program, and a lot of hard work, I found my way. Now, over 15 years later, I’m proud to say that I’m clean and sober. I’m even working on kicking my final addiction—tobacco—and I’m using patches and lozenges to help me through it. Recovery isn’t just about quitting substances; it’s about rebuilding a life. It’s about finding new ways to deal with anxiety, depression, and the challenges that led me to seek relief in the first place. I know it can be done, and I want to be there for anyone who needs support on their journey.