From ER Nurse to Recovery: Sandra Lander’s Journey
Episode Overview
Sandra Lander shares her experience with PTSD as an ER nurse. Her struggle with substance abuse began after severe panic attacks. A crucial moment of realisation led her to seek help. Support systems and therapy played key roles in her recovery. Sandra's story highlights the importance of mental health awareness.
Seeking support saved my life a lot of the time I felt alone and I felt like there wasn't hope.
Sandra Lander, a registered nurse, shares her gripping journey from the chaos of the emergency room to battling PTSD and addiction. Starting her career in a high-pressure environment, Sandra faced severe panic attacks and night terrors. Her reluctance to seek help led her down a dark path of substance abuse, culminating in a struggle that almost cost her life. This episode of 'Hard Knox Talks: Sober Stories.
Real Talk.' offers a raw and unfiltered look at Sandra's experiences and the turning points that led her to recovery. Sandra recounts how she hid her struggles from colleagues, often quitting jobs due to overwhelming panic attacks and substance abuse. Her addiction escalated from Adderall to Xanax, leading to years lost in a haze of prescription drugs. A pivotal moment came when she realised she had lost connection with her children, prompting her to seek help.
Sandra’s story is a testament to the power of support and the importance of addressing mental health issues head-on. Through therapy, meditation, and a strong support network, she found her way back to a fulfilling life. Her journey underscores the critical need for mental health awareness and the courage it takes to ask for help. If you're grappling with similar challenges or know someone who is, Sandra’s story might just be the inspiration you need.