Helaina Hovitz: From 9/11 Trauma to Sobriety
So really, the book and the journey is about...I couldn't make this full recovery until I got sober.
Imagine being just 12 years old, and your world is turned upside down by one of the most tragic events in modern history. That’s the reality Helaina Hovitz faced on September 11th, 2001, as she attended middle school just three blocks from the World Trade Center. In this compelling episode of 'Since Right Now', Helaina opens up about her journey through the aftermath of 9/11, grappling with undiagnosed PTSD and eventually spiraling into addiction and rebellion.
Her story is not just about survival but about finding a way to thrive against all odds. Helaina takes listeners through her darkest moments, including a memorable rock bottom involving a nurse’s costume and chicken nuggets, illustrating the chaos that can come with addiction. But she also shares the tools and support systems that helped her climb out of that darkness.
From Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to the community found in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Helaina’s recovery is a testament to the power of seeking help and being open to healing. She emphasizes the importance of respecting anonymity within AA and how writing became a therapeutic outlet for her. Her memoir, 'After 9/11: One Girl's Journey Through Darkness to a New Beginning', serves as a beacon for others who’ve faced similar struggles.
Helaina also sheds light on the often-overlooked group of child survivors of 9/11, advocating for more awareness and support for these individuals. Her story is both a cautionary tale and an inspiring roadmap for anyone dealing with trauma and addiction. Tune in to hear Helaina’s raw, honest account of her journey from the depths of despair to a life of sobriety and purpose.