Addiction Recovery

Kate's Story

My name is Kate and I'm 26. When I came in to Banner I was terrified and had no idea what was going to happen.

I was 19 years old and had become addicted to painkillers. After my time in the detox center, I never relapsed on painkillers (7+years going).

However, sadly, as happens with people like me who for whatever reason fall to addictions so easily, I became an alcoholic. I was a daily drinker after some time and one day something seemed to snap inside of me.

Every morning I was no longer just shaky or nauseous, I had intense panic attacks. The anxiety became so terrible that I called 911 on two occasions believing that I was going to die.

I quickly discovered that alcohol was the only thing that relieved this terrible panic. I began drinking in the morning, at work, all of the time. I was up to 12-14 drinks a day. I was never sober, and lost my job. I only dated fellow alcoholics, and only spent time with heavy drinkers.
I later discovered that the panic attacks were due to a lack of seratonin from the excessive alcohol. Since I have been sober, the panic has completely subsided. I knew where to go.

Both times I came to Banner for help the staff was patient with me, treated me for my withdrawals, was kind with me and treated me as an equal with dignity. In such a vulnerable time, I felt no judgement from any staff member at Banner. Not only did they counsel me, but I could tell that they truly cared about my well being and future, as well as the other guests that I was surrounded with. They were thorough and honest and ensured that I was safe throughout my withdrawal from alcohol and as comfortable as possible.

These staff members have to deal with a lot of ungrateful and (understandably) grouchy patients, they have to deal with a lot of stressful situations. They still show up every day to help people during the most difficult times of their lives. They do a WONDERFUL job.

 I came out of detox for alcoholism and have not relapsed. I'm approaching my 6th month mark. I've learned that I am the type of person who cannot partake in any substance without the risk of being addicted.

AA is a big help as well and cutting any and all ties with friends/aquaintences who used. I attended 90 AA meetings in 90 days AKA the "90-90". I now attend one meeting a week which is enjoyable. It's important to me to have people in my life to hold me accountable, or people that know my situation. If you're all alone without anyone to know if you relapsed, I imagine it's much easier to do so. I get so much more out of each day sober.

The past 6 months honestly feel like years. I truly enjoy every day without any substances. I'm happy, and excited about just living life. I remember hearing such things and not believing them about sobriety, but they really are true. I didn't get sober for the benefits, I got sober out of necessity - and was amazed by how much my life improved. I'm also healther, dropped weight from the lack of alcohol sugar calories, my skin looks amazing and I sleep amazingly. I can't tell you all of the benefits of being sober, but I can tell you that I am a real 26 year old recovering alcoholic and this is my story. I have a new life, and i'm happier than i've ever been. Thank you Banner Health staff. I owe you a couple of lives.