Recovery From Anything

We're going on a month long hiatus! Check back here on November 15th for all new episodes :) Love you - see you soon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Leanne’s life began with the mystery of not knowing her birth parents, who were themselves grappling with their own battles. However, she was adopted into a loving and supportive family, providing her with a stable foundation. Despite this support, Leanne found herself struggling with her identity, feeling like she never truly fit in. To cope with her sense of not belonging and the pressures of fitting in, Leanne turned to drugs and alcohol. This led her down a path of addiction, causing her to spend most of her adult life in a cycle of random jobs that facilitated her substance abuse. It was during this tumultuous period that she became pregnant. Leanne’s pregnancy was further complicated by the devastating news that her child, Darcy, was going to be born with serious health issues and might not survive. The courage it took to carry on with the pregnancy and give birth to Darcy was remarkable. But as they left the hospital and went home, a dark cloud of sadness descended upon Leanne. Today, Leanne stands as a beacon of hope and recovery. She has made a full recovery from postnatal depression and is sober, having conquered her addiction. Her relationship with her daughter, Darcy, has evolved into a beautiful and unbreakable connection. Despite Darcy’s ongoing medical needs, both mother and daughter exhibit incredible strength and determination, ready to leave their mark on the world. Content warnings - alcohol/drug abuse, physical injury, depression. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on the show, we're going to take a break from our usual storytelling to bring you a Q+A with host, Abi Feltham. Listen as Abi answers questions on recovery, sobriety and everything in between. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Luke's story begins in the crucible of his school years, where he was relentlessly bullied for being overweight. Seeking validation and acceptance, he adopted the role of the class clown, hoping that humor would be his shield. However, this pursuit of approval led him down a tumultuous path, often getting him into trouble. The roots of Luke's struggle with self-medication took hold when he developed an eating disorder, restricting food in a desperate bid to shed pounds and conform to societal ideals. As he turned 18, he found solace in attending parties with his older sisters. The allure of alcohol and recreational drugs provided a temporary escape from the anxiety and self-loathing that had haunted him for years. In a desperate attempt to escape his demons, Luke relocated to London, only to find his addiction issues intensifying. It wasn't until he sought help in rehab, not once but twice, that he received a life-altering diagnosis—ADHD. It was then that Luke realized he had been self-medicating his undiagnosed ADHD with drugs and alcohol, a revelation that would change the course of his life. Content/trigger warnings: disordered eating, drug abuse, car crash, alcohol abuse. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Raised by a single mother alongside four brothers and a sister, Chloe never knew her biological father. However, her world would change forever when her mother married her step-dad. This union brought with it the burden of addiction, as both her mother and step-dad struggled with alcohol abuse, often neglecting not only Chloe but also the needs of her siblings. At the tender age of 6, Chloe's life took a dark turn when her step-dad began sexually abusing her. This painful secret she carried weighed heavily on her shoulders, leading her to act out at school and even lash out at her younger brother. It wasn't until Chloe reached the age of 14 that she experienced a life-altering epiphany. She finally realized the gravity of the sexual abuse she had endured for years and made the courageous decision to confide in her mother about the horrors she had endured. Content/trigger warnings: child abuse, sexual assault, drug and alcohol abuse. In the UK, if you are in need of help, advice, support or intervention with issues relating to child sexual abuse, you can get in touch with the Lucy Faithfull Foundation - lucyfaithfull.org.uk For people who are struggling with sexual thoughts and behaviours towards children, or are concerned about someone else's behaviour, you can call Stop It Now! on 0808 1000 900. stopitnow.org.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Facing the chaos of her parents' separation, Jessica made a conscious choice to shield her loved ones from her own emotional turmoil. She believed that there was no room for her sadness amidst the family's upheaval and thus began the arduous task of suppressing her emotions. But little did Jessica know, as she entered her teenage years, the consequences of emotional suppression would begin to surface... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brianna's story began in a loving family with two artist parents who provided unwavering support to her and her two sisters. As a spirited child, she was passionate about performing, often immersing herself in plays and theatrical pursuits. However, beneath her vibrant exterior, she grappled with feelings of never quite measuring up, even as a child. It was a seemingly innocuous event, a failed math test, that marked the beginning of Brianna's struggle with self-harm. The overwhelming emotions of not meeting her own standards and expectations led her to resort to self-inflicted pain as a coping mechanism. Remarkably, this behavior continued into her teenage years, despite her academic achievements and her deep love for theater and sports. The shadow of low self-esteem loomed large. Brianna's journey was characterized by a relentless pursuit of perfectionism, with self-harm serving as a punishing release valve every time she perceived a failure, no matter how trivial. Her torment deepened when she ventured abroad, grappling with a demanding job and surrounding herself with individuals who reinforced her damaging belief that she was inherently inadequate. This episode serves as a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the capacity for healing and self-love. Brianna's story is a beacon of hope for those facing similar struggles, showcasing that with the right support and a commitment to self-discovery, it is possible to break free from the grip of self-harm and embark on a path toward genuine self-acceptance and recovery. Content/trigger warnings: self harm, self injury. If you are living with self-harm, you can find support via Self-injury Support, National Self Harm Network, Self-injury Support, LifeSIGNS, The Mix and Sane. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Growing up in a small Georgia town where Baptist beliefs dominated, Rosa found herself standing out as an outsider due to her parents' atheistic views. Both her parents were professors at the local university, exposing Rosa to a worldview that differed greatly from her peers'. This stark contrast led to her feeling like a misfit and enduring the torment of relentless bullying from classmates. In this episode, we explore Rosa's transformational journey, the pivotal moments that led her from the depths of self-hatred to the shores of self-compassion. We delve into the tools, the mindset shifts, and the support systems that played a pivotal role in Rosa's path to healing. Content/trigger warnings: alcohol abuse, suicidal ideation, sexual assault references Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt's life began with the gift of a stable and loving childhood, surrounded by his two sisters and caring parents who provided everything he needed. As he grew, Matt achieved the milestones of life that many aspire to: marriage, a home, and the joyous arrival of children. However, when tragedy struck at the age of 30, everything changed. His world was shattered when his 5-month-old son succumbed to sudden infant death syndrome, leaving him grappling with unimaginable grief. Struggling to cope with this profound loss, Matt turned to destructive coping mechanisms such as alcohol and drugs. The pain of not knowing how to grieve, coupled with uncertainty about his son's well-being, led Matt to hit rock bottom. The devastating aftermath extended to his marriage, which eventually dissolved under the weight of their shared sorrow. Amidst the darkness, Matt found a glimmer of hope that became his turning point. He embarked on a journey of spiritual exploration and encountered a medium who reassured him that his son was safe. This encounter brought a profound sense of relief, giving Matt the courage to begin the difficult process of healing. Content/trigger warnings: baby loss, sudden infant death syndrome, alcohol and drug abuse, suicidal ideation. If you need bereavement support after the death of a baby or child, you can contact The Lullaby Trust here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Growing up, Jess never had the chance to know her father, and her mother's battle with bipolar disorder led to a life of instability. Their relationship evolved into an unhealthy and toxic bond that resembled more of best friends than parent and child. As a child, Jess found herself in the heart-wrenching role of caretaker, often needing to patch up her mother's self-inflicted wounds and tending to her emotional needs. Trapped in a cycle of unhealthy coping mechanisms, Jess mirrored her mother's behavior and struggled with her own mental health. By the age of 13, she had already taken her first overdose. In a desperate bid to be together, Jess's mother attempted to end her life to join her daughter in the hospital. Jess's life was a tumultuous journey, bouncing between foster care, children's homes, and her mother's care. Today, Jess's story takes a heartwarming turn as she now works in peer support within the very psychiatric wards she frequented as a child. Through relentless practice of wellness, gratitude, and compassion, she has forged a path to forgiveness – forgiving both her mother and herself. Jess's journey is a powerful testament to the human spirit's resilience and the transformative power of self-love. Content/trigger warnings: self harm, suicide, mental illness, child abuse, alcohol and drug abuse. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From an early age, Luke stood out as the shy, introverted child in a family that favoured sports and athleticism. Unlike his three younger brothers, Luke's interests lay in technology and science fiction, setting him apart as the "black sheep" of the family. This feeling of being an outsider only intensified when his family moved to the United States when he was just 9 years old. In his new environment, Luke became a target for relentless bullying due to his outsider status. The cruelty he experienced shattered his self-esteem and confidence, leaving deep emotional scars. Join us as we explore Luke's inspiring journey of triumph over trauma, celebrating his courage, reflecting on his challenges, and uncovering the vital lessons he has learned along the way. Through Luke's story, we discover the power of authenticity, self-compassion, and the transformative potential of embracing a life aligned with one's true desires. Content/triggers warnings: bullying, depression, suicide and self-harm. If you are in the UK and having suicidal thoughts, you can find a list of support services here, or text SHOUT to 85258. If you are being bullied, you can contact the National Bullying Helpline here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Raised in a financially struggling family, Dave's physical needs were met, but emotional nourishment was scarce. His parents seldom expressed love or pride, leaving him with a profound sense of emptiness and yearning. At the tender age of 14, Dave's life took a devastating turn when he stumbled upon an empty house and a heart-wrenching note from his mother, announcing she was leaving the family. The sense of abandonment and isolation he experienced became unbearable, leading him down a path of self-destructive behaviour. Join us as we accompany Dave on his journey from the depths of alcohol abuse to the heights of self-discovery, celebrating his triumphs, acknowledging his struggles, and learning from the profound lessons he has encountered. Through his story, we explore the incredible potential for healing, resilience, and the beauty of embracing a life of self-love and authenticity. To find out more, you can visit Dave on Instagram. If you're worried that you're drinking too much, there's support available. Find out about your options here. Content/trigger warnings: alcohol abuse, child abandonment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After enduring eight long years of violence, Katrina finally found the strength to leave her abuser once and for all. With the support of women's charities, friends, and family, she escaped the oppressive home with her two beloved children. This marked the beginning of her journey towards recovery and self-reclamation. Throughout her recovery journey, Katrina found solace in human connection and hearing the stories of others who had overcome their own challenges. It is through these connections that she found strength, inspiration, and the belief that she, too, could rebuild her life. Join us on this transformative episode of “Recovery from Anything” as we delve into Katrina’s journey from surviving to thriving. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, healing, and the potential for a life filled with love, joy, and self-empowerment. Despite the pain of her past, Katrina’s determination to reclaim her life and embrace a brighter future is an inspiration to us all. Content/trigger warnings: domestic abuse, violence, financial abuse, substance abuse, abuse during pregnancy. If you're experiencing domestic abuse, you can find support in the UK here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Josh's life has been filled with overwhelming struggles like addiction, depression, and isolation, leading him to the point of attempting suicide. However, his remarkable journey stands as a testament to the enduring power of hope. While the road to recovery is seldom linear, Josh's story serves as an inspiration to anyone grappling with mental health challenges. Despite occasional struggles, he has made tremendous strides in his journey toward healing, finding solace, and rebuilding his life. Today, Josh stands as a beacon of hope, embracing happiness and gratitude for the second chance at life he has been granted. Join us as we navigate the complexities of mental health, addiction, and the profound resilience that can emerge from the depths of despair. Together, we will explore the transformative power of engaging in open, honest, and supportive conversations about our mental well-being that can ultimately triumph over even the darkest of circumstances. Content/trigger warnings: bullying, depression, suicide, drug use, alcohol abuse, explicit language. If you’re struggling with addiction, you can find a list of UK support services here. If you are in the UK and having suicidal thoughts, you can find a list of support services here, or text SHOUT to 85258. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we delve into the complexities of bipolar disorder and its impact on an individual's life. Liv's story serves as an inspiration to listeners, highlighting the importance of seeking appropriate care, finding support networks, and engaging in self-care practices. Through her advocacy and personal journey, Liv reminds us that recovery is possible, that no one is alone in their struggles, and that there is hope for a brighter future despite the challenges posed by mental illness. Openness became a powerful tool in Liv's recovery. She made a conscious effort to speak openly about her bipolar disorder with the people she cared about, breaking down stigma and fostering understanding. By embracing vulnerability, Liv showed others that being diagnosed with a mental illness is not a life sentence. She became an embodiment of the fact that it is possible to lead a full and happy life while managing a mental health condition. Content/trigger warning: mental illness, depression, mania, substance abuse, disordered eating. In the UK, you can find information and support for bipolar disorder, hypomania and mania here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa, Toni grew up in a dysfunctional environment marred by her parents' constant arguments and animosity towards each other. From an early age, she endured relentless bullying from her peers, subjecting her to hurtful remarks about her appearance. Adults reinforced these damaging messages, suggesting she was unattractive and needed to wear makeup to be deemed beautiful. These experiences left Toni with profound self-esteem issues, fueling her yearning to fit in and make friends. However, she struggled to relate to the other girls, further intensifying her sense of isolation. As Toni entered high school, she discovered a liberating truth: she didn't have to conform to societal norms. Embracing this newfound freedom, she found solace in creating her own character and personality. Yet, her desire for control took a dangerous turn, leading her down a perilous path towards developing an eating disorder. Desperate to attain an idealized image, Toni resorted to hazardous diet pills and began abusing alcohol. After a series of traumatic experiences, Toni plunged deeper into a life of chaos, seeking solace in the numbing grip of crystal meth. For years, she battled addiction, resorting to lying, cheating, stealing, and manipulating those around her. Join us in this gripping episode of "Recovery From Anything" as we explore Toni's inspiring path to recovery. Through her story, we shed light on the power of self-realization, accountability, and incredible resilience in overcoming the darkest of times. Content/trigger warnings: sexual assault, drug use, alcohol abuse, disordered eating, explicit language. If you're struggling with drug addiction, you can find support in local UK area here. If you are a sexual assault survivor, you can find specialist support in your local UK area here. If you’re struggling with disordered eating, you can find support here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Claire's story began with her decision to move to Hong Kong, eagerly embracing a new chapter in her life filled with excitement and possibilities. Over the course of a year, she settled into the vibrant city, forged friendships, and started to find her place in the bustling metropolis. However, the night of her 30th birthday took an unexpected turn when a fire erupted in her apartment, thrusting her into a battle for survival. As the flames intensified, Claire confronted the grim reality of her situation, fearing that escape might be impossible. Yet, fuelled by sheer determination, she managed to force open a door and miraculously escaped the engulfing inferno. Claire relocated back to the UK, but soon discovered that the scars left by the fire extended beyond the physical realm. She began to feel detached from the world, experiencing a deep sense of disconnection and descending further into depression. Initially, she believed she could simply pick up where she left off, but the reality proved far more complex and challenging. The turning point came when Claire experienced a breakdown during a family function. Sensing her distress, her mother and sister urged her to seek professional help. Following a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Claire embarked on a profound journey of recovery. With the support of therapy, she began to confront her trauma, process her emotions, and rebuild her life from the ground up, including rediscovering her love of running. Through therapy, Claire learned coping mechanisms and developed resilience, gradually reclaiming her sense of self and finding hope for the future. This episode explores the complexities of recovery from a traumatic event, highlighting the importance of seeking professional help and the transformative power of therapy. Claire's story serves as a testament to the strength of acknowledging one's struggles, seeking help, and embarking on the profound work of healing and recovery. If you're struggling with the symptoms of PTSD, you can find support here. Content/trigger warnings: house fire, depression PTSD, description of physical injury, explicit language. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From a young age, Josh faced immense challenges, beginning with his father's incarceration when he started school. When his dad was released, he returned bearing the burden of not only an alcohol abuse problem but also a drug addiction. The weekends that were meant for bonding with his father turned into a harrowing experience—synonymous with chaos, violence, and anger—until the tragic moment when Josh witnessed his father's passing at the tender age of nine. In an attempt to find solace, Josh turned to alcohol and drugs at the tender age of twelve, relying on them as his source of happiness. His teenage years and early twenties were marked by drug dealing, involvement in gangs, alcohol abuse, and football violence, all driven by a desperate search for the father figure he had longed for. By the time Josh reached twenty-four, he found himself burdened with debt, trapped in a toxic relationship, and living a fragmented existence on a fold-out bed in his mother's house, battling daily alcohol abuse. However, his life took an extraordinary turn when he embarked on the path to sobriety, dedicating himself to personal growth and confronting the deep-rooted trauma from his childhood. Today, Josh's story stands as a testament to the power of healing, illustrating that we can break free from the chains of traumatic childhood experiences and rewrite our own narratives. Join us as we delve into Josh's remarkable journey of transformation, shedding light on the resilience of the human spirit and the possibility of breaking generational cycles. You can find Josh on Instagram, and his website - https://www.joshconnolly.co.uk/ If you have been affected by a parent's drinking, you can find support here. Content/trigger warnings: drug abuse, alcohol abuse, violence, suicide. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and celiac disease as a child, Jenny grappled with anxiety and depression throughout her teenage years. However, after enduring the heart-wrenching loss of two loved ones, her mental health struggles took an unforeseen turn. Jenny found herself using the dangerous method of stopping her insulin as a form of self-harm. What began as a manifestation of her low self-esteem and negative body image spiraled into a self-destructive cycle. In this candid episode, Jenny bravely opens up about her journey, shedding light on the deeply ingrained patterns of behaviour that persisted until a near loss of eyesight forced her to reevaluate how she saw and treated herself. Join us as we explore the impact of toxic positivity on Jenny's self-esteem as a person living with chronic illness, and the profound connection between her treatment of herself and her sense of self-worth. If you're struggling with disordered eating, you can find support here. For information or help with managing diabetes please see a list of UK based support groups here. Content/trigger warnings: eating disorder, depression, anxiety, bereavement, description of eye surgery, explicit language. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Growing up with clear skin and only occasional struggles with eczema, Amy's life took an unexpected turn when she moved to Germany from Canada and began working as a housekeeper in a hotel. Regular exposure to harsh cleaning chemicals triggered rashes all over her skin, leading her to seek medical help. Little did she know that the prescribed topical steroid creams would set her on a path filled with darkness and uncertainty. In this episode, Amy bravely opens up about her experiences with Topical Steroid Withdrawal, sharing the challenges she faced and the toll it took on her physical and emotional well-being. However, amidst the darkness, Amy discovered a glimmer of hope and solace in her garden. Through resilience, determination, and the healing power of nature, Amy found a pathway to recovery. You can find Amy on Instagram and Tikok, If you're struggling with TSW, you can find support here. Visit our Instagram to see pictures of Amy then and now, or check out our website for more information on the podcast. Content/trigger warnings: topical steroid withdrawal, suicidal ideation, description of physical injury, explicit language. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.