So many times, we hear people say “if only I had tried to get sober 20 years ago my life would be so different’. Or some people don’t get to say that as many in addiction don’t make it out alive.  Every addict or alcoholic will use for the last time and for some it will be their last time ever as death is a very real consequence of active addiction.  We thought it would be a good idea to poll some prominent members of the recovery community and ask them them this question: “What advice would the “you” in the recovery give the “you” in active addiction?”

Recovery interviewees

Firstly, we started out asking Steven Hall, Community Relations Manager for TOGETHER WE CAN Drug & Alcohol Recovery and Education Society:

“The biggest piece of advice I would have is to try to move through the fear of what sobriety would look like. One of the things that kept me in addiction for so long is that I had no idea what sobriety would be like or if I could handle the emotions that I felt when I wasn’t using.”

Secondly, another fabulous member, David Penny, Digital Communications Coordinator for TOGETHER WE CAN Drug & Alcohol Recovery and Education Society, provided us with his insight:

“Learn to say what you need. People aren’t mind readers, and you need to advocate for yourself to get the best chance of success. Put aside your pride, reach out, and ask for guidance.”

Lastly, our final response was from Trista Zamany, Marketing Manager and Recovery Coach for Westcoast Interventions:

“I would have told myself how much more rewarding my life could be because I was worthy and deserving of a good life.  You can come through the darkness and out the other side and be a productive member of a community.”

Leave us a comment and let us know, What advice would the “you” in recovery give the “you” in active addiction?

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, we are here to help.  Contact us directly at 1-888-438-9991.