#MyRecovery – Jacob’s Story

#MyRecovery – Jacob’s Story

During Recovery Month, we’ve asked people in recovery to share their stories about what led them to recovery and their experience with treatment, so that others can feel empowered to open up and seek help, too. This is Jacob’s story. #MyRecovery

1. How did your experience with opioids start, and when did you know you needed help?

My experience with opioids started at the age of 19. I fractured my femur and was prescribed percocet, the oxycocet. I knew I needed help about a year and a half later.

2. What’s something that a lot of people misunderstand or “get wrong” about addiction or people who use drugs?

The biggest thing most people “get wrong” in my opinion is that they think it was a choice, to become the way I had due to opioids. Opioids changed my behaviours and basically re-wired my brain. Not for the better. I had gotten very angry.

3. What has it been like getting treatment? What has it meant to you?

Getting treatment at first was great. It seemed to work very well. Unfortunately I didn’t do anything to change my addictive behaviours which led to a rollercoaster of good and bad moments during my treatment. In the long-run, it saved my life.

4. What have you learned about yourself along your recovery journey?

The most important thing I have learned is “who” I am as an individual. I was lost, searching for the unknown as all I grew to know was pain and suffering.

5. What is something that people would be surprised to learn about you?

Most people that know me would be surprised to learn that I enjoy crafts. I enjoy giving back what I have been given. Most importantly, I enjoy being a father. Without treatment, NONE of those qualities would exist.

6. If you could share one message to people who may be struggling with substance use, what would it be?

Don’t EVER give up. I truly thought, and truly believed that there was no hope left for me. I felt at one point that I was defeated and was giving up. I was in a very dark place. I reached out and ACCEPTED the help for the first time. My thoughts, my feelings, my behaviours have all changed for the better. Without the guidance/direction from my clinic, I’m not sure where I would be. There is always hope, there is always someone that cares. Keep fighting and take it one day at a time. Those days will add up, and we grow as they do.

Thank you, Jacob, for sharing your experience in recovery. Happy Recovery Month!

Find more #MyRecovery stories here

All stories and photos are shared with expressed consent by the individuals.