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Season 2, Episode 11

***TRIGGER WARNING: TALK OF SUICIDE, DEATH AND OTHER TRAUMA RELATED INCIDENTS**** Please listen with caution and seek help where needed.

We sit down with Jeff, a medically retired police officer, to talk honestly about PTSD, alcohol dependence, and the moment his body and mind forced him to stop running. He shares how AA, inpatient treatment, and real connection help him rebuild family life and stay alive when shame and stigma try to keep him silent.

• meeting in an outpatient program and what first impressions reveal about trauma and trust
• what inpatient treatment at St John of God feels like when you are scared and exposed
• how validation and peer support speed up recovery
• why cumulative trauma can start years earlier than you think
• alcohol as a coping mechanism that quietly becomes the enemy
• the fear of asking for help in policing and the risk of being “punished” for it
• pancreatitis as a turning point and what AA gives in early sobriety
• rebuilding marriage and parenting after quitting drinking
• the PTSD breaking point, suicidal thoughts, and the power of someone intervening
• coping strategies without alcohol, including service and routine in AA
• where to start if you need support, including GP pathways, AA, detox, and rehab
• a funeral letter that makes the case for reaching out early

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Song of the Week:

Somebody Save Me - Eminem & Jelly Roll

https://youtu.be/Vwa0HenQMi4?si=heG7LPvz-MorhMFs

Thought of the Week:

"To my friends, family and colleagues. Please, if you are struggling with an addiction, reach out for help. If you let your addiction ruin you, you will more than likely lose the most important things in the world to you. I am unfortunately proof of that. I am 176 days sober. Please reach out if you need help. / wish / would have reached out earlier and forced my demons. It is never too late to reach out for help. You are important and you are worthy."

Please be kind to yourself and seek help if needed.