Addiction is an ugly problem that affects some of the world’s most beautiful people. If you’re one of them, I offer you this simple encouragement: There is light at the end of the tunnel. As the #WeCanRecover movement makes clear, it’s possible to move past a substance abuse disorder and toward a new life of health and happiness.
I don’t pretend to know the right step to move toward recovery from substance abuse, but there are people who do. Reach out to them. Beg them to be part of your life, to stay by your side through the hard days and the long nights. To cheer you on when all you want to do is give up. These are the people who can help you move beyond addiction and reclaim your identity as a mother, father, son, daughter, aunt, uncle, or friend.
No matter what anyone tells you or what you tell yourself, substance abuse disorder doesn’t have to hold you in place. Because as strong as it may be, you’re stronger. So, take the next step toward sobriety. And when you’ve been clean for a week, month, decade, or longer, tell somebody. Because we’re all rooting for you.