Stephanie's Journey: From Rock Bottom to Resilience
Episode Overview
Stephanie's last drink was on January 11th, 2020. Alcohol was used as a coping mechanism for stress and anxiety. Her husband's brain injury intensified her struggles with alcohol. Finding a supportive community was crucial for her recovery. Holding space without judgment is vital in supporting others.
Sometimes things go off script, but it's all about making the best of the situation
In this episode of Recovery Elevator, you'll meet Stephanie, a 48-year-old from San Diego who bravely shares her journey to sobriety. She took her last drink on January 11th, 2020, and her story is nothing short of inspiring. The episode kicks off with Kris reflecting on the importance of family time, even when things don't go as planned.
His recent camping trip serves as a metaphor for the ups and downs of life and recovery—sometimes things go off script, but it's all about making the best of the situation. Stephanie opens up about her struggles with alcohol, triggered by the pressures of work and family life. She recounts how she used alcohol as a coping mechanism for stress and anxiety, especially after her husband suffered a severe brain injury.
This led to a full-blown addiction that she initially tried to manage by cutting back, only to find herself back at rock bottom. One of the most poignant moments in the episode is when Stephanie discusses the impact of her drinking on her family, particularly her twin boys. She talks about the brain fog and the emotional toll it took on her relationships. But it's not all doom and gloom; Stephanie's journey is also one of hope and resilience.
She credits her recovery to finding a supportive community through the Recovery Elevator podcast and other resources. Kris and Stephanie also touch on the concept of 'holding space'—being there for someone without judgment or trying to fix their problems. This simple yet powerful idea resonates throughout the episode, reminding us all of the importance of empathy and support in recovery.
If you're curious about what an alcohol-free life could look like or need some encouragement on your own journey, this episode offers a heartfelt glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of sobriety. Tune in to hear Stephanie's story and find out how she turned her life around.