Pamela Bonasera: Rising Above a Narcissistic Marriage and Alcoholism
Recovery from an emotionless narcissistic husband and recovering from alcohol abuse, to hide the marriage issues, were the best two things I have done for myself. Realizing that my marriage was only going to get worse, I decided I needed to save myself and my children.
Imagine growing up in a household where emotional support is scarce, only to find yourself repeating the same cycle in adulthood. That’s the reality Pamela Bonasera faced. In this episode of 'Steps to Sobriety', host Stephan Neff sits down with Pamela, who opens up about her tumultuous journey from a challenging childhood to a toxic marriage, and how she eventually found her way to sobriety and self-love.
Pamela, the youngest of five daughters, had to navigate her mother’s depression and alcoholism following her parents' divorce. This early exposure to dysfunction set the stage for her own struggles. She married a man who mirrored her father’s abusive tendencies, both emotionally and physically. To cope with the pain, Pamela turned to alcohol, leading to her own battle with addiction. But Pamela’s story doesn’t end there.
Realizing that her marriage was detrimental not only to herself but also to her children, she made the brave decision to leave. Through therapy, spirituality, and self-care, she managed to reclaim her life. Pamela emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and sharing one’s story as a powerful tool for healing. This episode is a raw and honest conversation about breaking free from destructive patterns and finding strength in vulnerability.
Pamela’s journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and serves as an inspiration for anyone struggling with similar issues. Tune in to hear how she transformed her life and learn practical advice on overcoming adversity.