Melissa

Topics: Substance Abuse

 

"I was 9 years old when I tried alcohol for the first time. By the time I was 12, I was regularly drinking to cope with depression and bullying. At age 14, I was smoking marijuana, which eventually led me into more drugs. My friends were doing drugs and I didn’t want to lose them, so I did drugs too; I was going to do anything to keep my friends. Eventually I lost all of my real friends because I stole from them and hurt them both emotionally and physically. In the end, my addiction with drugs and alcohol cost me thousands of dollars, my freedom, my civil rights, my friends and family, and my emotional and physical health. What hurt the worst was embarrassing my family and losing their trust.

I spent 4 months in Tent City. During this time, I realized that my only purpose in life was impressing people and chasing a buzz. I stayed sober when I was released and got counseling for my emotional issues. I also found help in support groups. Since getting out of jail, I’ve made a habit of setting personal goals, maintaining positive relationships and having stability in my life. Learning to be comfortable by myself has really helped, but it was difficult getting to that point. Now I have learned to value my personal time.

Today I can say I am finally comfortable with myself. I used to think I needed validation, approval and to have dozens of friends. Today I no longer worry about being left out. Now, I just do things I want to do without worrying if they make me seem un-cool. Today I am able to realize people who criticize me or my choices probably would never be impressed even if I did try to change for them. Today I am comfortable with me, and that is what matters!"