Patrick

Topics: Substance Abuse,  Alcohol Abuse/Binge Drinking

“My life is completely and entirely different. As a result of my experience, I have grown up and developed a life that I wouldn’t trade for anything. I began smoking weed in 6^th grade to cope with a death in the family. By 9^th grade I began experimenting with pain killers and alcohol. In 10^th grade I started using cocaine and by 11^th grade I tried Meth for the first time and I was hooked. The consequences I faced as a result of my addiction are endless. I destroyed the bond I had with my own family. It has taken me over two years to piece together the relationship between myself and my family. I put myself in terrifying situations and my body began to deteriorate. My recovery has been a long process. My parents supported me in going to a treatment center for sixty days in Montana. I was introduced to the twelve step program. I also spent six months at a halfway house. One strategy for recovery I learned was I can’t stay clean on my own. I need to surround myself with people from A.A. and people who love and support me.”