Nick Goodwin: From Marine to Mentor in Addiction Recovery
I found this program through [the VA], but they're not going to know the full extent of the support I've received in the community I've started to become a part of.
Nick Goodwin, a former Infantry Officer with the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, has walked a path many veterans know all too well. In this episode of the SMART Recovery® Podcast, Nick opens up about his journey from military service to battling alcohol use disorder and finding a new sense of purpose. He shares candid stories about what drew him to the Marines, the challenges he faced with alcohol, and how he discovered SMART Recovery through the Veterans Addiction Recovery Center.
Nick dives into why many veterans are drawn to SMART Recovery's approach, emphasizing choice and self-management over rigid instructions. He also touches on how substance abuse often masks deeper mental health issues and how crosstalk in meetings can be incredibly effective. Nick’s story is one of resilience and transformation, showcasing how SMART Recovery's practical tools and supportive community have helped him manage depression and anxiety while finding a new mission in life.
Tune in to hear how Nick is now giving back by co-chairing the first SMART Recovery Online Veterans and First Responders meeting, providing a lifeline for those who’ve served.