Five and a half years ago, I made a decision that would change my life forever. I chose recovery over alcohol. I chose freedom over a prison. Today, I celebrate not just sobriety but the growth, healing, and strength I’ve found along the way. This milestone is an opportunity to reflect on the past, express gratitude, and share the lessons I’ve learned in hopes of inspiring others on similar paths.
Every journey has a starting point, and for me, it was crying in my therapist’s office in Austin, Texas listening to her tell me that the only way for me to move forward was to go to treatment for alcohol abuse. I had known I had a problem with drinking for years and even tried an Intensive Outpatient Program the year before, but I knew in that moment, if I don’t choose this option, I am going to die. I remember waking up every morning feeling so exhausted and hung over and swearing I wouldn’t drink that day, but always stopping at the liquor store on the way home for more. The last few years of my drinking, I became a solo drinker, drinking only at home by myself. I had become a shell of myself. All I could think about was my next drink. I didn’t follow through with plans I had made with friends, was late to work and had made myself so sick. That moment crying in my therapist’s office shattered my illusions and forced me to confront the impact alcohol was having on my health, relationships, and sense of self.
Recovery doesn’t happen alone. I reached out for help, and it came in many forms:
- After my life changing, difficult and incredible 48 days at the treatment center, The Meadows in Wickenburg, Arizona, I began going to AA and found a woman with some sober years under her belt that I wanted what she had and asked her to be my sponsor.
- I had amazing friends that supported my choice to become sober and supported me by not drinking around me for some time.
- I continued to see my therapist who I still see today. She helped me tremendously with her knowledge, tools and support.
The hardest step was admitting I couldn’t do it alone, but it was also the most liberating.
The first year was the toughest. I couldn’t really be around alcohol without feeling angry or feeling sorry for myself. I had to stay away from it as much as I could. I had to let go of toxic friendships. I had to make a whole new group of friends in sobriety. Eventually I made a fantastic group of friends that I’m still friends with today. It took time though, but it was so worth it so have friends that know exactly what I’ve been through and may be going through from time to time. I learned to take life one day at a time. Slowly, sobriety went from being a struggle to being my source of strength.
Key tools that help me include:
- Building a routine that kept me focused.
- Exploring healthy outlets like exercise, hiking, meditation, journaling.
- Practicing self-compassion and forgiving myself for past mistakes.
Lessons from Five Years of Sobriety
- Healing Takes Time: Recovery isn’t linear, and setbacks are part of the process.
- Your Environment Matters: Surrounding myself with supportive people and avoiding triggers is crucial.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Each sober day is a victory, and they add up to years.
One of the most profound realizations I’ve had is that sobriety isn’t just about quitting alcohol; it’s about rediscovering who I am without it. I’m grateful for the sponsors I’ve had in the past five years and the one I have today, my friends I left behind in Austin and the new ones I’ve made and am making here in Colorado, my therapist, the WAC community, and the experiences I’ve had that have led me to where I am today. Without them, this journey would have been impossible. Today I have stayed sober through moving States, new jobs, a breakup and losing a parent. Looking back, I feel proud—not just for being sober but for reclaiming my life and purpose.
To anyone struggling with addiction or just beginning their recovery: You are stronger than you know. Take it one day at a time, and don’t hesitate to seek help. Recovery is possible, and life beyond addiction is worth fighting for. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me through messenger anytime! As I celebrate this milestone, I’m reminded that the journey doesn’t end here. Sobriety is a lifelong commitment, but it’s also a gift—one I cherish every single day. To the next five years and beyond!
