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Personal Story: How I beat my alcohol addiction

Read a personal account of overcoming alcohol addiction and the subsequent journey to sobriety. Gain insights into the challenges, strategies, and support systems involved in conquering alcohol addiction and reclaiming a healthy, fulfilling life.

Personal Story: How I beat my alcohol addiction


I was 18 when I was labeled an “Alcoholic” by my family and on social media and it became so consuming that I developed a huge self stigma. I drank 3 times per year on a 5 day binge, yet I was only known as an alcoholic. My family tried to help but ended up giving me conflicting advice to the ones I received from professionals.

The turning point for me was intensive counselling funded by ACC, when I decided that I didn't want to live like this any longer. I was lucky to find an awesome counsellor who I was able to address my struggle against being sexually assaulted, that I wasn’t able to raise during rehab. It was only through therapy that I discovered I was so much more than an alcoholic. She really helped me in finding myself and my voice.

Today I am at peace with myself, I put my own needs first and work hard on changing the stigma I have about myself. Staying well is something I have to work on every day. I started a peer support group on Facebook for women in South Canterbury, I find it so rewarding to be able to help other ladies. I also love being able to share my story. I hope to be able to continue this type of work in the future.


#BeautifulMinds is a series of raw and honest stories from people sharing their lived experience with mental health in New Zealand. Published with permission. We hope these stories capture the diversity of how mental health affects different people and you can be inspired by their journey towards mental wellbeing. Clearhead’s mission is to destigmatise mental health through raising awareness and encouraging people to feel it is ok to seek help early by giving them the tools to do so. Sign up now to use the platform, it is free to do so!

If you like what you read, please do share it. If you are interested in sharing your story, please email us at [email protected]

Healthline
If you are not in immediate danger but require crisis support:  mentalhealth.org.nz
Suicide Call Back Service
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Lifeline
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Beyond Blue
Beyond Blue aims to increase awareness of depression and anxiety and reduce stigma. Call 1300 22 4636, 24 hours/7 days a week, chat online or email.
Kids Helpline
Kids Helpline is Australia’s only free 24/7 confidential and private counseling service specifically for children and young people aged 5 – 25. Call 1800 55 1800.
MensLine Australia
MensLine Australia is a professional telephone and online counselling service offering support to Australian men. Call 1300 78 99 78, 24 hours/7 days a week, chat online or organise a video chat.
Open Arms — Veterans and Families Counselling
Open Arms — Veterans and Families Counselling provides 24/7 free and confidential counselling to anyone who has served at least one day in the ADF, their partners and families. Call 1800 011 046.
If you are not in immediate danger but require crisis support:  healthdirect.gov.au