From ALCOHOL at 12 to COOKING CRACK at 44 | SHOPLIFTING, DRUGS, & A LIVING HELL
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Show Notes
In this episode, we sit down with a New York native who opens up about his tumultuous journey through addiction, from his early days in Long Island to the darkest corners of Miami. With a background of affluence and hardship, he dives deep into the spiral of substance abuse that began at the tender age of 12 and escalated to unimaginable extremes.
Growing Up
Growing up in a family of immigrants from the former Soviet Union, our guest's childhood was marked by both privilege and immense hardship. His parents, having experienced deep trauma themselves, provided a stable home, but the emotional scars ran deep. He recalls a pivotal moment when he was only a year old, fighting for his life in a hospital, setting the tone for the challenges that would follow.
First Time Using a Substance
At the age of 12, he encountered alcohol for the first time. It wasn’t just a drink; it was a spiritual experience that offered a sense of belonging and confidence that he hadn’t felt before. This encounter opened the door to a world of substances, from pot to hallucinogenics, each step pulling him deeper into the abyss of addiction.
Active Addiction
As he entered his teenage years and early adulthood, the drugs became more accessible and more dangerous. High school was a blur of acid trips and meth experiments, but it was his first encounter with cocaine that truly changed everything. By the time he was in college, cocaine had become his drug of choice, and he quickly descended into a life of chaos, losing friendships, relationships, and any semblance of a stable life.
Hitting Bottom
The lowest point came years later, in Miami, when the allure of heroin and crack became too strong to resist. He describes the nightmarish experience of smoking crack at 44, a decision that led to psychosis, paranoia, and a complete breakdown of his life. The days blurred together as he lost himself entirely, eventually realizing that he could no longer sustain this life.
Getting Help
Finally, after years of struggling, he found his way to a treatment center in Florida. It wasn’t the first time he had sought help, but this time was different. He realized that his addiction was more than just a psychological issue—it was a spiritual one. Through intensive therapy and a focus on healing the soul, he began to piece his life back together.
Life Today
Today, he’s a different man. Though the scars of addiction remain, he’s found a new way of living—one that involves ongoing therapy, spiritual growth, and a deep commitment to his family. He’s rebuilt his career, restored relationships, and, most importantly, found a sense of peace. His story is a powerful testament to the possibility of recovery and the strength of the human spirit.
FAQs
What are the early signs of addiction?
Early signs include increased tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and behavioral changes.
How does trauma influence addiction?
Trauma often underlies addiction, acting as a trigger or coping mechanism.
Can spiritual practices help in addiction recovery?
Yes, addressing spiritual needs can be a crucial part of holistic recovery.
Is it possible to recover from long-term addiction?
Absolutely, with the right support and treatment, long-term recovery is possible.
What role does family play in addiction recovery?
Family support can be vital, but boundaries and education are equally important.
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