Grieving My Son’s Death Led to Xanax AddictionGrieving My Son’s Death Led to Xanax Addiction
Recovery Matters! Podcast
Dave Ogden shares his journey through grief and Xanax addiction, highlighting the crucial role of community support and therapy in recovery.
32:50•22 Apr 2025
Overcoming Grief and Addiction: Dave Ogden's Journey
Episode Overview
- Dave Ogden shares his early drug experiences and their impact on his life.
- He recounts the tragic loss of his son and the subsequent struggle with Xanax addiction.
- Dave describes the severe withdrawal symptoms he faced when quitting Xanax cold turkey.
- He emphasises the importance of community support and therapy in his recovery journey.
- Dave advocates for better support systems for young people dealing with substance use through Students for Recovery.
“Withdrawal is some weird stuff, dude. I've been through detox multiple times, but this was the most unbelievable experience I've ever had.”
In this heart-wrenching episode of Recovery Matters! Podcast, Dave Ogden, a dedicated school counsellor, shares his tumultuous journey through substance use and the immense grief following his son's tragic death. Dave recounts his early encounters with drugs during a difficult childhood and the significant turning point when he met his wife, which initially steered him towards a more stable life.
However, the sudden loss of his son led him down a path of Xanax addiction, resulting in severe withdrawal symptoms and a desperate struggle to regain control. Through candid anecdotes and raw honesty, Dave highlights the critical role of community support and therapy in his recovery process. He also discusses his advocacy work with Students for Recovery, aiming to provide better support for young people dealing with substance use.
This episode is a powerful testament to resilience and the importance of compassion in the recovery journey. Tune in to hear Dave's inspiring story and gain valuable insights into overcoming addiction and loss.

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