*This campaign does not offer support services. If you are seeking support please view services here or phone the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015 or Gambler's Help Hotline on 1800 858 858*
Ally
Has a lived experience of addiction

In October 2012, I was sitting in a doctor’s surgery hungover, depressed and thinking about suicide. For 20 years, alcohol had controlled my life. Reaching down, I picked up an old magazine and began to read the story of a woman whose life resembled my own. Like me, this woman had been a prisoner to alcohol, but she had recovered.
I was 34 and had already been admitted to rehab 5 times and sought help countless times through multiple health services and support groups over a period of 7 years. I would always resort back to drinking and did not believe that a life without alcohol would be possible for me.
I decided to commit myself to the same long-term residential program the women in the magazine had done. Her story gave me hope. In 2013 I completed the 10 month 12 step Recovery Program, and stayed on at the center as a mentor for another 5 months. It was the most challenging, yet rewarding 15 months of my life, and the best thing I could ever have done.
I have remained sober ever since with no desire to drink, something I never thought was possible. Life is good.