This is a deeply honest addiction recovery story of John, who struggled with alcohol and prescription drug misuse for nearly two decades. He shares how unprocessed childhood trauma, shame, and denial led to cycles of relapse—and how rigorous honesty and trauma therapy finally brought him to sobriety and peace.

Explore addiction and mental health treatment options: https://recovery.com

Key talking points:
1. John battled alcohol addiction and prescription drug misuse for nearly two decades.
2. He experienced multiple stints in rehab, starting in 2010.
3. His drinking escalated to day-drinking and isolation, nearly destroying his family.
4. He endured cycles of sobriety, dry spells, and painful relapses.
5. Childhood sexual abuse was a buried trauma fueling his addiction.
6. Shame, denial, and feelings of "not enoughness" kept him from healing.
7. A final relapse involving mouthwash marked his emotional rock bottom.
8. Trauma work and rigorous honesty became the turning point.
9. He now maintains 17 months of sobriety with deep personal peace.
10. John lives authentically, embracing vulnerability and service in recovery.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:29 John's Journey Begins

01:07 Struggles with Alcohol and Relapses

01:57 The Turning Point

03:33 Understanding the Depths of Addiction

04:52 Seeking Help and Treatment

07:05 Facing the Root Causes

10:23 The Path to Recovery

15:53 Embracing Authenticity

22:12 Conclusion and Resources

#addiction
#addictionrecovery
#addictiontreatment