Breaking Generational Cycles: Ashley Walls' Journey from Addiction to Advocacy
Episode Overview
Ashley Walls shares her journey of breaking generational cycles of addiction. The impact of family dynamics on addiction and recovery. The importance of setting boundaries with family members struggling with addiction. Ashley’s struggles with PMDD and its effect on her mental health. Honouring lost friends through advocacy and support.
I can love my family members while tending to my own healing.
In this episode of Chasing Heroine: Addiction Recovery Podcast, Jeannine Coulter Lindgren and Narcan Nate sit down with Ashley Walls, a remarkable 21-year-old who has already shown incredible wisdom and resilience. Ashley's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Growing up with a father who was in and out of prison and battling addiction, Ashley faced numerous challenges from a young age. Her father's relapse after nine years of sobriety sent her on a downward spiral, leading her to substance abuse.
However, Ashley's story is one of transformation and breaking generational cycles of addiction and codependency. Ashley shares candidly about her experiences, including some teenage antics that led her to lock herself in a trunk on nitrous. Her ability to reflect on her past with such clarity at such a young age is truly impressive.
One of the most touching aspects of Ashley's story is her dedication to honouring her late friend Polina, who played a significant role in her recovery journey. Ashley talks about the Polina Fund, which helps women get funding for substance abuse and mental health treatment. Jeannine and Nate also discuss the importance of setting boundaries, especially when dealing with family members who are still struggling with addiction.
Ashley's story highlights the power of self-awareness and the importance of seeking help when needed. She also touches on her struggles with PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder) and how it affects her mental health and recovery. This episode is a powerful reminder that no matter how deep-rooted the issues may be, change is possible. Ashley's journey is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the impact one person can have in breaking destructive patterns.
If you're looking for a story that combines raw honesty with hope and inspiration, this episode is a must-listen.