Real people sharing real stories about their experience with substance abuse and mental health.
During my twenty-five year career in substance abuse treatment, I’ve frequently heard family members (and clients) insist that "Alcohol isn't his/her/my problem - drugs are!" and "Alcoholism isn't his/her/my problem - addiction is!" as if the same principles of recovery from chemical dependency don't apply to any dysfunctional situation where alcohol either isn't present or isn't present enough to be identified as the primary drug-of-choice.
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By: Lisa B., Transformations Alumni Coordinator Integrity is more than how others perceive you when you do what you say you will do and stick to your truth; it is how you feel when you do so. I feel icky when I don’t show up or break a promise because I just did not…
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When it comes to substance use disorder or mental illness, the evidence is clear: Treatment works. With the right treatment, an individual can recover from either of these illnesses and ultimately lead a happy and healthy life. However, while treatment works, not every treatment works for everyone. For treatment to truly be effective, it must…
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A substance use disorder or mental illness can lead to significant personal challenges. If you suffer from either disorder, you need to know you’re not alone. Both of these illnesses are tragically common. According to the latest statistics, 29.5 million people in America had an alcohol use disorder over the past year, and the number…
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When you come down with a cold or flu, you don’t think you’re a bad person, right? If you break your leg, do you look at the sky and curse your “weak” bones? Probably not. However, that perspective was once common. People once thought alcoholism or drug addiction was a sign of bad character, not…
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By: Silvo M., Transformations Alumnus I started drinking and using drugs when I was 16, it all started with having fun until it wasn’t anymore. I used to glamorize the use of alcohol and drugs especially as a teenager. At the time, I just wanted to fit in and be accepted. Time went on and…
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By: Mike Murphy, Manager of Alumni Services On June 19th I had the pleasure of celebrating my 3rd year of continued sobriety. Now, I will be the first one to tell you, I’m not a “day counter”. First, because I am a firm believer that every day is Day One. Secondly, because when I started…
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By: Lisa Blomgren, Alumni Coordinator Over the weekend, I watched Words on Bathroom Walls, a thought-provoking film highlighting the challenges faced by a teenager named Adam, who was diagnosed with schizophrenia. This film shines a light on mental health issues in our youth and delves into the internal struggles Adam faced due to his often-intense…
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By: Lisa Blomgren, Alumni Coordinator As the summer season approaches, many of us eagerly anticipate days filled with sunshine, social gatherings, and the opportunity to relax with friends. However, the summer months can present some challenges for those committed to a sober lifestyle. Parties, vacations, and celebrations often involve alcohol, making it crucial to have…
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By: Allen O., Transformations Alumnus Hi, I’m Allen Offill and I’m an alcoholic. My sobriety date is January, 13th of 2017 and I’m walking proof that people change. We CAN better ourselves through action and we DO get second chances. I started drinking and using at the age of twelve. From the start, I loved…
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