Sports and Sobriety: A Double-Edged Sword
Sometimes those characteristics do not play well in the sandbox with sobriety. Because at rehab I still had a lot of those athlete voices in my head, the voices that say: where there’s a will, there’s a way. Second place is first loser. No mercy sweep the leg.
Sports have always been a significant part of Nelson H.'s life, but how do they mesh with his journey to sobriety? In this episode of 'LOL Sober', Nelson takes listeners through his personal history with athletics, from high school sports to college tennis. His love for the game taught him perseverance, resilience, and hard work. But what happens when those same traits clash with the needs of recovery?
After a severe illness led to multiple surgeries and an introduction to painkillers, Nelson found himself spiraling into addiction. Rehab brought new challenges: the athletic mindset of pushing through pain didn't translate well to the world of sobriety, where surrender and asking for help are crucial. Nelson candidly discusses the struggle to balance the positive aspects of sports with the realities of recovery.
He emphasizes the importance of knowing when to tap out and admit defeat, a concept foreign to many athletes. This episode is perfect for anyone who loves sports and is navigating their own recovery journey or supporting someone who is. Nelson's story offers valuable insights into how sports can both aid and hinder sobriety, making it a compelling listen for all.