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REAL STORIES

To help tackle the harmful stigma and misinformation surrounding addiction, Rethink Addiction provides this space to share the real stories of addiction. These are real people who have lived with addiction, supported a family member or friend, or have been involved in providing clinical care or peer support.

In sharing the real stories of addiction we see that it is a complex issue that touches all Australians, but that help is available and change is possible. Read through the stories below and see how addiction has impacted the lives of everyday Australians and how important getting help can be.

CONTENT WARNING: Please note that some stories may highlight themes of suicide, domestic violence and/or assault. These themes have not been removed to remain true to our storytellers lived experiences.

Share your story

Anonymous B

Chef

Eventually I staggered into this place and people looked after me. I think the thing is to keep trying. It’s not about stopping because other people tell you. It’s about stopping because you want to.

Tam

Mum

I felt something. That was the start. Once I started feeling like I could talk about it I could see the trauma and hurt. There were years when I couldn’t speak about being abused as a child and I think that stopped me from getting help.

Allen Christensen

Former AFL Player

Gambling is very much ingrained in Australian culture. It was only when a mate sat me down that I knew I had to stop. Talking to others with lived experience has been the most powerful tool in my recovery and I want to let others know that a weight is lifted off you when you reach out for support.

Ben Hamilton

Kickin' the Punt

I had my last punt in December 2019 and went on to found Kickin’ the Punt with my wife. I was diagnosed with PTSD and now I see a psychologist. Peer support from people with lived experience and professional help was key to overcoming my gambling addiction.

Chrissie

Clinician

I have a family history of alcoholism, and after a traumatic childhood there was little hope of me not developing a problem. When entering rehab, I was terrified about what the other people were going to be like – the ‘real alcoholics’. I was surprised to meet friendly, intelligent and decent people. Today, after 10 years of freedom, I am incredibly grateful for the support that community gave me.