We’ve all seen or heard the frightening ads on the dangers of meth from the Colorado Meth Project. Take a closer look at the world of meth and one mom’s story of survival and recovery.
Here’s what you need to know about meth: for most people, the first time they try it, they’re addicted. I was no different. The drug made me feel invincible. Everything you’ve heard about meth, I experienced. The ads are pretty true to life, but, going through it is a lot scarier. I especially hear my story in the radio spots.
I went from being a nurse and building a home and family to losing everything. Today, I’m four years sober. But I didn’t get to this place in my life without help.
I came to Arapahoe House’s Special Connections program when I was six months pregnant.
At first, I didn’t believe that I could change, even though I was pregnant. Meth was in control of my mind, I was defenseless and afraid. I remember my first group therapy session. The counselor walked into the room. Immediately, I sensed that the other women respected her. I observed their interaction with her and I thought, wow, this might be worth giving a try. Group was open and comfortable. I realized the counselors were there to help me, not judge me.
I started crawling out from underneath my mess. The counselors helped me figure out why I was using. If you don’t figure out the why, then how can you be expected to conquer this disease long-term? I also learned about meth and what it was doing to my brain and body. I made huge strides in treatment and slowly grew confident that I could beat my disease. I didn’t just listen in group and one-on-one therapy, I internalized the lessons. Arapahoe House was a stepping stone to a brand new life. I’m still close to the girls I graduated Special Connections with. We continue to support each other.
I was in Special Connections for more than a year. I’d be lost without the tools I learned at Arapahoe House. I still use these tools on a daily basis and I’ve been clean for four years. I can look in the mirror now and not feel guilty. I can see a cop and not be afraid anymore. I’m not a slave to meth anymore.
Thankfully, there were no side effects from the meth on my now 4-year old daughter. I’m blessed to get a second chance at being a wife and mother. My girls are everything to me. I read to them, we play and I help them with school. When they get older, I want to get back into nursing. We’ve made a home and a sense of togetherness. I couldn’t be happier.
To everyone out there struggling with this disease, there is hope. It doesn’t matter what you’ve done. Arapahoe House is willing to walk along side of you. They don’t do the work for you, but they teach you the skills you need to beat it and are there to support you. I encourage others out there to keep fighting for your second chance at life.