As I sit here, reflecting on my journey, I can’t help but feel a profound sense of gratitude for the path I’ve taken. On May 26, 2008, I embarked on a journey to get clean and sober, and for the past 16 years, I have navigated the highs and lows of recovery. One of the most challenging aspects of getting clean and sober was finding a reason to do so. It was hard to imagine my life being fulfilled without drugs or alcohol. But over time, I discovered that finding purpose in addiction recovery was not only possible but essential to staying sober.

In the depths of my addiction, I suffered from anxiety, depression, and CPTSD. Drugs and alcohol seemed like the only things that could alleviate my negative feelings and help me get through each day. However, these same substances were also destroying my life. Whenever I couldn’t find them or didn’t have the money to buy them, I would be debilitated until I could. I was a prisoner of my addiction, and it was hurting my whole family and barely allowing me to function as a human being. I reached a point where I had to choose between continuing this destructive path or trying my best to stop.

Finding Meaning and Purpose

Finding meaning and purpose in addiction recovery was my lifeline. One of the first ways I found this was by creating websites and social media accounts to reach out and help people with anxiety and depression. This endeavor was incredibly therapeutic for me. It allowed me to connect with others, which helped me feel less different and alone. It also enabled me to step outside of myself and focus on the needs of others.

Helping others get clean and sober became another significant source of purpose for me. I found immense fulfillment in guiding others through their recovery journeys, sharing my experiences, and offering support. Knowing that I could make a difference in someone else’s life gave me a reason to stay strong in my own recovery.

Practicing meditation and mindfulness was another crucial element of my recovery. These practices not only helped me manage my anxiety and depression but also allowed me to help others incorporate mindfulness into their lives. Teaching mindfulness and stress reduction techniques became a passion of mine, and it reinforced my commitment to sobriety. Additionally, finding things to look forward to was vital. For instance, I discovered a love for traveling, whether it was exploring New England or visiting the Caribbean. Having something exciting on the horizon helped me navigate the moments when life felt routine and boring. It gave me a reason to push through the tough times.