Alicia Cook: Transforming Pain into Purpose Through Writing
I think that there's a huge shift coming. I mean even in though, and when my cousin was going through this- and you know not a lot of my friends knew it- was that we kept it very close within our family because of everything associated, all those you know, pigeonholing, stereotypes, and now it's like it's a little more out in the light, out in the open, and hopefully someone important finally hears us.
Imagine turning your deepest struggles into a source of inspiration for others. That's exactly what Alicia Cook, author of 'Stuff I’ve Been Feeling Lately', has done. In this heartfelt episode of the Addiction Support Podcast, hosted by Melissa Sue Tucker, Alicia opens up about her personal journey with addiction, not as an addict herself, but as a family member deeply affected by it.
She discusses the emotional rollercoaster she experienced and how the stigma surrounding addiction can often make the journey even more isolating. Through candid conversation, Alicia highlights the therapeutic power of writing, sharing how it became her sanctuary and a means to process her feelings. She talks about donating all proceeds from her book to the Willow Tree Center, a place that played a crucial role in her family's healing process.
The episode also touches on practical advice for supporting loved ones in recovery and emphasizes the importance of sharing personal stories to foster understanding and acceptance in society. Whether you're dealing with addiction yourself or supporting someone who is, Alicia's story offers hope and practical insights on navigating these challenging waters.