Kristina C. – Sober 3 Years

Kristina C. – Sober 3 Years

Imagine starting your battle with addiction and mental health issues at just five years old. That's the reality Kristina C. faced. In this episode of 'AA Recovery Interviews', she opens up about her tumultuous journey from a chaotic childhood to finding peace in sobriety. By 15, Kristina had already been through the wringer—treatment for drug and alcohol abuse, self-harm, and even a suicide attempt.

But it took another 14 years for her to find the lasting sobriety she craved, and it was the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous that finally guided her there. Raised in an affluent but turbulent household, Kristina turned to cutting and substance abuse early on as coping mechanisms. Her teenage years were a blur of treatment programs and temporary sobriety. Yet, it wasn't until a devastating personal loss at 22 that she began to see the light.

The death of her boyfriend from a drug overdose became a turning point, pushing her to abandon intravenous drugs and focus on alcohol and self-harm instead. Kristina's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. She talks about the importance of willingness in recovery and how crucial parental support can be. She also highlights the benefits of mental health care for those dealing with co-occurring disorders.

Through the fellowship of AA, Kristina found lifelong friends and a community that helped her stay sober. This episode is particularly inspiring for women who have faced similar struggles. Kristina emphasizes the power of opening up, asking for help, and the transformative effects of prayer and meditation. Her journey serves as a beacon of hope for anyone grappling with addiction and mental illness.