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REAL STORIES

To help tackle the harmful stigma and misinformation surrounding addiction, Rethink Addiction provides this space to share the real stories of addiction. These are real people who have lived with addiction, supported a family member or friend, or have been involved in providing clinical care or peer support.


In sharing the real stories of addiction we see that it is a complex issue that touches all Australians, but that help is available and change is possible. Read through the stories below and see how addiction has impacted the lives of everyday Australians and how important getting help can be.

CONTENT WARNING: Please note that some stories may highlight themes of suicide, domestic violence and/or assault. These themes have not been removed to remain true to our storytellers' lived experiences.

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Lynne

Family Member or friend

I have supported my 30-year-old son with his addiction since he was age 14. Accessing the right supports for him has been a struggle. Stigma really affects the way he engages with services, and has also affected me.

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Aaron

Has a lived experience of addiction

I’m also going to make sure I have a strong support system of friends and family who will be there for me when I need them. With their help, I know I can overcome this addiction and finally live a happy, healthy life.

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Tanya

Has a lived experience of addiction

We came from a very low socio-economic background with addiction and mental health issues strangling our family. Those of us in the midst of it, are traumatised.

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Ashford

Has a lived experience of addiction

Today I am studying youth work and working towards using my life experience as a youth advocate, so they won’t feel as alone as I did.

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Kerrie

Has a lived experience of addiction

I am an ambassador for a national PTSD organisation and my desire is to bring great hope through sharing my story of lived experience and letting others know, that if I can come out the other side they can too.

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Anonymous A

Family Member or friend

I feel less shame as time goes on as there is no way forward with shame.

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Chloe

Has a lived experience of addiction

I'm 10 months into my recovery and cannot be more grateful for the life I have now. I attend recovery group twice a week and TAFE every other day. I am blessed to be a better version of myself and my goal is to help those who are struggling!

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Kathryn

Has a lived experience of addiction

I found treatment so much better than I’d ever imagined. I learned so much about myself and substance use during that time. Fast forward to now and I have a job in peer support work.

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Rhys

Has a lived experience of addiction

I have climbed mountains, run ultramarathons and swum marathons. Life is big beyond addiction!

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Mark

Has a lived experience of addiction

Recovery has provided me the opportunity to excel in life and reach my potential. I am eternally grateful for now living a life of purpose and meaning. I aim to leave a legacy of hope to others.

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