Chapter 20: My New Beginning, Owning My One Precious Life

This is my story of recovery, and of how I took my life from chaos to calm. I was diagnosed as a Dual Diagnosis case when I sought help in 2018. This means I suffered from depression and a dependency issue, a bit like the chicken and the egg question, it is irrelevant to me which came first, all I know is they were a powerful intoxicating burden to carry. I was voluntarily admitted to a residential facility, much to my disgust, as I felt I didn’t really need that much help. I would have preferred a magic spell or pill to make the changes. But there is no quick fix for addiction. My cry for help was after many years of being treated with medication for depression. This time things were different, I self-referred to my G.P. explaining that I felt I was dependent on a glass or three of wine every evening. It was something I had tried to reduce or control via abstinence, but I just couldn’t manage to resist alcohol. It had a hold over me. My G.P. was wonderfully understanding and so kind, she had known me for years and was surprised with my request for a referral to St. Patrick’s Hospital. It is essential that you can ask for help, Doctors treat all ailments, some visible and more invisible. They never judge you and are only too happy to help.