Voices of Recovery: How Three Individuals Overcame Addiction
- Lea Fruehauf
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
There are many studies about recovery, offering a lot of information, strategies, and solutions. However, what is often missing is the voice of those who are directly affected. Education programs can be a valuable tool to support people on their way back to social life and overall well-being. Through coaching, people can receive the guidance they need to rebuild their lives. The following three people share their personal recovery stories and explain how education or coaching played a part in their journey.
Arturo:
Arturo had a difficult past marked by alcohol abuse and drug addiction. He had several encounters with the police and spent time in jail. When he thought things couldn’t get any worse, his mother passed away from cancer. After several failed attempts to get sober, he finally entered a recovery program and decided to continue his education at college.
“I would go to school during the day and go to work at night,” he recalls. “There were times when I slept in my car while waiting for my next class.”
Education became his source of hope, structure, and motivation to recover. Months later, he graduated and decided to continue to university, where he earned his bachelor’s degree and later a master’s degree in social work. Today, he works at the recovery center where he once began his new life, helping people in situations similar to his own to get a chance at a better future.
JJ:
JJ struggled with addiction in her youth and found support through the Process Recovery Center’s coaching program. With individualized guidance, she was able to overcome her substance use, build stability and self-confidence, and create a fulfilling life. She secured a steady job, moved into her own apartment, and became involved in teaching and coaching cheerleading. Reflecting on her journey, she says:
“I’ve been sober 15.45 months. It might not be the longest time, but when I remember how impossible it was for me to go even an hour without a drink, I’m pretty proud.”
Michael:
Michael Walsh struggled for years with addiction, facing the highs and lows that come with long-term substance use. After multiple relapses, he realized he needed more than willpower, he needed guidance and support. Michael turned to a recovery coaching program, where he began learning strategies to manage his addiction and rebuild his life. Through coaching, he discovered new ways to cope, regain confidence, and set goals for his future. Today, Michael is not only sober but also works as a recovery coach himself, helping others navigate the challenges he once faced, showing how personalized support and mentorship can transform lives.
These stories demonstrate the crucial role that education and mentoring play in the recovery process. Such programs provide not only knowledge and skills but also the structure, guidance, and encouragement needed to rebuild lives. By combining education, personalized coaching, and supportive networks, individuals are empowered to overcome addiction, regain independence, and contribute positively to society.
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