Interview with a Reader: How Olivia Got Sober
January 8, 2025Interview with a Reader: Maya’s journey from Homelessness to Helpfulness
January 9, 2025(Find Sobriety): Brandon, thank you so much for joining us. Your story is inspiring, and we’re excited to share it. Can you tell us a bit about your background and what led you to seek help?
Brandon: Thanks for having me. I grew up in Long Beach, California, and for a long time, I lived what I thought was a normal life. But over the years, methamphetamine took over. At first, it was just a way to keep up with work and life, but before I knew it, I was completely hooked. My relationships, my health, my career—they all fell apart. I finally hit rock bottom when I lost my apartment and was sleeping in my car. That’s when I knew I needed help.
(Find Sobriety): That must have been incredibly difficult. How did you find “Find Sobriety”?
Brandon: I just found you on Google when I was looking for help honestly. At the time, I didn’t even know where to start looking for treatment, and I felt completely lost. “Find Sobriety” made the whole process feel manageable. I went on the site, filled out their intake form, and within hours, I had options for treatment centers that fit my situation.
(Find Sobriety): What was your first experience with treatment like?
Brandon: My first treatment center was a good start, but I wasn’t fully ready to embrace recovery. I was clean for about six months after I finished, but I relapsed. It was one of the hardest moments of my life. I felt like I had failed, and I wasn’t sure I could try again.
(Find Sobriety): Relapse is a common part of recovery, and it’s incredible that you didn’t give up. What role did “Find Sobriety” play after your relapse?
Brandon: You were there for me again when I needed them most. I reached out to your support team, and they didn’t judge me for relapsing. Instead, they encouraged me to keep going. They helped me find a new treatment center that focused more on long-term strategies and aftercare support. That second treatment center was a game-changer for me.
(Find Sobriety): What made the second treatment experience different for you?
Brandon: I think it was my mindset. I realized that recovery isn’t about being perfect—it’s about progress. The second treatment center emphasized building a strong support network, and I leaned heavily on group therapy and a mentor I met through the program. This time, I also used the aftercare resources “Find Sobriety” suggested, like local support meetings in Long Beach.
(Find Sobriety): That’s such a crucial realization. Now, three years sober, how has your life changed?
Brandon: It’s been a complete transformation. I’m back on my feet with a steady job, and I’ve rebuilt my relationships with my family. I even volunteer at a local recovery group to help others who are going through what I did. Staying sober isn’t always easy, but every day is worth it. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and I couldn’t have done it without “Find Sobriety.”
(Find Sobriety): You should be so proud, Brandon. What advice would you give to someone who feels like they’ve failed after a relapse?
Brandon: My biggest advice is to not give up on yourself. Relapse doesn’t mean failure—it means you’re human. Reach out for help again. “Find Sobriety” didn’t give up on me, and because of that, I didn’t give up on myself. Recovery is a process, and it’s okay to take it one day at a time.
(Find Sobriety): Thank you for sharing your story, Brandon. It’s such a powerful example of resilience and hope. Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Brandon: Just a big thank you to “Find Sobriety” for being there for me—twice. They made it possible for me to find the help I needed and reminded me that there’s always a way forward. To anyone out there struggling, don’t be afraid to take that first or second step. You’re worth it.
(Find Sobriety): Thank you, Brandon. Your story is going to inspire so many people. Congratulations on your three years sober, and thank you for giving others hope.