I am 28 and to outsiders, my life was pretty damn good – great family and friends, great boyfriend, amazing job with the best coworkers etc., but for reasons I couldn’t understand, alcohol controlled my life. My responsibilities, priorities and morals were the last thing I cared about, alcohol had become my one and only thought. My entire life revolved around when and how I was going to get it. Everything that came out of my mouth was a lie or an empty promise. The decisions I made were of those I would never think about doing now that I am sober. I wanted to quit/be a “normal drinker” but didn’t know how or where to start. My family and friends were at their wit’s end trying to help me – but they and I knew there was so much more to life worth living for. I had found myself in the ER twice in less than a week and I still didn’t think that my life was worth seeking help for. I begged and made more excuses and empty promises, but I inevitably agreed. I cannot think of a better decision I’ve ever made, although that was not the mindset I had in the beginning.

When I walked in, I still had no true intention of actually quitting for good – I told myself I would go just to get everyone off of my back, and this would be like a little vacation from work – but my mindset changed after a week of being there. My time at Turning Point completely exceeded any expectations I had. This was my first experience at an Inpatient Treatment center and I was overwhelmingly nervous/scared. The atmosphere was exceptionally welcoming and comforting. I was able to heal in a way I didn’t expect and I learned so much – I was finally given answers as to why/how my life came to be completely unmanageable, along with the blueprint and tools I needed to turn everything around.

Tanner’s approach to recovery, in my opinion, is unique and more realistic for long-term sobriety. AA meetings are not forced on you, but I did choose to attend my very first meeting and to this day I still go weekly. I am approaching 6 months of sobriety and I confidently say that I wouldn’t be where I am in my life right now if my friends and family hadn’t encouraged me to make the decision to set foot in the care of Tanner and all of the wonderful/caring staff at Turning Point. I know now that I will never be a “normal drinker”, that first drink will send me straight back to the hell I was living in and much worse.

I still take it day by day. Some days are easy while others are pretty difficult – but Tanner’s aftercare program has helped me stay focused and headstrong. I highly recommend continuing treatment after inpatient treatment with him because coming back to real life, for myself, was just as overwhelming. It was very comforting to know I wasn’t just being thrown back into the world, he made sure I was ready and I had confidence in myself. He continues to encourage me and acknowledges my milestones and achievements. I also know I will always have him to turn to if I’m ever in doubt.

I am not alone anymore. I like myself again, I am happy, I enjoy life so much more, I appreciate it – and the people in my life enjoy being around me again. I could not be more thankful!